Coluria geoides

Family: Rosaceae

What it is like

Coluria geoides is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.3 m (1ft) by 0.3 m (1ft in). It is in flower in June, and the seeds ripen in July. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Height (m): 0.3

Where it is found

Mountains and high mountain steppes, often on stony or rocky slopes, especially along river valleys.

E. Asia - Altai, Siberia.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 2

The root is a cinnamon substitute. It smells and tastes strongly of cloves.

Condiment: the various plants that are used as flavourings, either as herbs, spices or condiments.

Medicine

Rating: 0

Other

Rating: 2

An essential oil is obtained from the plant (the root?). A substitute for cloves (Eugenia caryophyllata).

Essential: Essential oils that are used in perfumery, medicines, paint solvents, insect repellents etc.

Scented Plants: Plants noted for their scent

How it is grown

An easily grown plant, succeeding in ordinary garden soil. Plants form large mats.

Propagating it: Seed - sow spring in a cold frame. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the cold frame for their first winter. Plant them out in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts. Division in spring or autumn. Very easy, larger clumps can be replanted direct into their permanent positions, though it is best to pot up smaller clumps and grow them on in a cold frame until they are rooting well. Plant them out in the summer or following spring.

Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;

Habit: Perennial

Hardiness:

Growth:

Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)

Shade: Semi-shade, no shade

Moisture: Moist

Things to keep in mind

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

C. laxmanii. C. potentilloides. Dryas geoides.