Heracleum wallichii
Family: Apiaceae or Umbelliferae
What it is like
Heracleum wallichii is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft). 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. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in full shade (deep woodland) semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.
Height (m): 0.6
Where it is found
Shrubberies and open slopes, 3600 - 4100 metres from C. Nepal to Bhutan.
E. Asia - Himalayas.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 0
Medicine
Rating: 1
The root is aphrodisiac and tonic.
Aphrodisiac: Increases the sexual appetite.
Tonic: Improves general health. Slower acting than a stimulant, it brings steady improvement.
Other
Rating:
How it is grown
We have almost no information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in this country, though judging by its native range it should succeed outdoors in much of Britain. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Succeeds in any ordinary garden soil, doing best in moist soils or deep woodland.
Propagating it: Seed - sow mid to late spring or early autumn in situ. Division in the autumn.
Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; not Deep Shade;
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness:
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: Full shade, semi-shade, no shade
Moisture: Moist
Things to keep in mind
Although no specific mention has been seen for this species, many members of this genus contain furanocoumarins. These have carcinogenic, mutagenic and phototoxic properties. Skin contact with the sap of some members of this genus is said to cause photo-sensitivity and/or dermatitis in some people.