Frostweed, Longbranch frostweed
Helianthemum canadense
Family: Cistaceae
What it is like
Helianthemum canadense is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.4 m (1ft 4in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in flower from May to July. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects, cleistogamy. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very alkaline soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.
Height (m): 0.4
Where it is found
Open woods, clearings and barrens in dry sandy soils
Eastern N. America - Maine to Ontario and Wisconsin, south to North Carolina and Mississippi.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 0
Medicine
Rating: 2
The dried leaves are alterative, antiscrofulatic, astringent and tonic. A tea made from the leaves is used in the treatment of kidney ailments and sore throats. A strong leaf tea has been used in the treatment of scrofula. It is applied externally to skin diseases and eye infections. It is said that an oil helpful in the treatment of cancer has been obtained from the plant. Some caution is advised since an overdose can cause nausea and vomiting.
Alterative: Causes a gradual beneficial change in the body, usually through improved nutrition and elimination, without having any marked specific action.
Antiscrophulatic: Counteracts scrofula. (TB, especially of the lymph glands)
Astringent: Produces contraction in living tissue, reducing the flow of secretions and discharges of blood, mucus, diarrhoea etc.
Cancer: Used in the treatment of cancer.
Tonic: Improves general health. Slower acting than a stimulant, it brings steady improvement.
Other
Rating:
How it is grown
Requires a light well-drained soil in a sunny open position. Tolerates a pH range from 5.5 to 8.
Propagating it: Seed - sow spring in a greenhouse. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for at least their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts. Cuttings of half-ripe wood, 6 - 8cm with a heel, late summer in a sandy soil in a frame.
Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Sunny Edge;
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness: 6-9
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium
Shade: No shade
Moisture: Dry, moist