Dogfennel
Eupatorium capillifolium
Family: Asteraceae or Compositae
What it is like
Bloom Color: White. Main Bloom Time: Early fall, Late fall, Mid fall. Form: Upright or erect.
Eupatorium capillifolium is a PERENNIAL growing to 3 m (9ft 10in). 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): 3
Where it is found
Borders of woods, clearings, fields and roadsides. Disturbed areas, mainly in sandy soils in Texas.
Eastern N. America - New Jersey to Vancouver, south to Florida.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 0
Medicine
Rating: 1
The entire plant is applied externally as a remedy for the bites of reptiles and insects.
Stings: Used in the treatment of stings and insect bites.
Other
Rating: 0
The plant is used as a strewing herb and to discourage insects.
Repellent: Plants that are said to deter but not necessarily kill various mammals, birds, insects etc.
Strewing: Plants, usually aromatic, that are strewn on the floor to give a nice smell, repel insects etc.
How it is grown
We have very little information on this species but, judging by its habitat, it should be hardy in Britain. Other members of this genus succeed in ordinary well-drained but moisture retentive garden soil in sun or part shade. Plants seem to be immune to the predations of rabbits. An aggressive and weedy species. Special Features: North American native, Invasive.
Propagating it: Seed - sow spring in a cold frame and only just cover the seed. Prick out the seedlings into individual pots when they are large enough to handle and plant them out into their permanent positions in the summer. Division in spring or autumn. Very easy, the clumps can be replanted direct into their permanent positions.
Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness: 3-10
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: Semi-shade, no shade
Moisture: Moist