Greater Burnet Saxifrage, Hollowstem burnet saxifrage
Pimpinella major

Family: Apiaceae or Umbelliferae

What it is like

Pimpinella major is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.8 m (2ft 7in) by 0.3 m (1ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from June to July, and the seeds ripen from July to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. 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): 0.8

Where it is found

Hedge banks, woodland edges and other grassy places.

Europe, including Britain, from Scandanavia south and east to Portugal, the Balkans and Caucasus.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 1

An essential oil from the roots is used as a flavouring in candy, liqueurs etc.

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

Medicine

Rating: 2

The leaves are diaphoretic, diuretic, resolvent and stomachic. The plant is harvested as it comes into flower and dried for later use. The root is anti-inflammatory, mildly astringent and expectorant. The fresh root is very hot and acrid, but this pungency is greatly reduced when the root is dried. When chewed, the fresh root is effective in treating toothaches and paralysis of the tongue. An effective diuretic, the root is used in treating disorders arising from obstructions of the viscera. The root is also used for soothing coughs or the effects of laryngitis and bronchitis. The roots can be harvested in the spring or autumn and are dried for later use. The seeds are carminative. The German Commission E Monographs, a therapeutic guide to herbal medicine, approve Pimpinella major Greater Burnet Saxifrage for cough/bronchitis.

Antiinflammatory: Reduces inflammation of joints, injuries etc.

Astringent: Produces contraction in living tissue, reducing the flow of secretions and discharges of blood, mucus, diarrhoea etc.

Carminative: Reduces flatulence and expels gas from the intestines.

Diuretic: Acts on the kidneys, promoting the flow of urine.

Expectorant: Clears phlegm from the chest by inducing coughing.

Other

Rating:

How it is grown

Easily grown in any good soil, preferring rather moist conditions. Grows best in a cool position. Plants are hardy to about -20°c.

Propagating it: The seed requires a period of cold stratification. If you can obtain fresh seed then it is best sown immediately. This can be done in situ if you have sufficient seed, but if you only have a small quantity then it is safer to sow it in pots in a cold frame. Sow stored seed as soon as you can obtain it, this is probably best done in a cold frame. When they are large enough to handle, prick the pot-grown seedlings out into individual pots and plant them out in the summer.

Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Shady Edge; Hedgerow;

Habit: Perennial

Hardiness: 4-8

Growth:

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

Shade: Semi-shade, no shade

Moisture: Moist

Things to keep in mind

Photosensitivity possible in light skinned people. Care needed as pimpinella contains essential oils and saponins .

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

Pimpinella saxifraga var. major L.