Hyoscyamus aureus
Family: Solanaceae
What it is like
Hyoscyamus aureus is a BIENNIAL/PERENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). 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 and can grow in very alkaline soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.
Height (m): 0.6
Where it is found
Cliffs, old walls and ruins to 1200 metres.
S. Europe to W. Asia.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 0
Medicine
Rating: 1
The whole plant is analgesic. Caution is advised, see notes above on toxicity.
Anodyne: Relieves pain, it is milder than an analgesic.
Other
Rating:
How it is grown
Prefers a hot dry position in a wall or rock crevice. Succeeds in a well-drained fertile soil, preferably of an alkaline nature, in full sun. Grows well in maritime areas. Plants are possibly hardy to about -10°c, they are unlikely to succeed in the colder areas of Britain. Self-sows freely, it can be grown in wild informal areas of the garden.
Propagating it: Seed - best sown as soon as it is ripe, older seed rapidly loses viability. Either sow in situ or pot up the seedlings whilst still small because plants produce a long taproot and older plants resent root disturbance.
Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds; East Wall. In.
Habit: Biennial/Perennial
Hardiness: 7-10
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: No shade
Moisture: Dry, moist
Things to keep in mind
All parts of the plant are very toxic. Symptoms of poisoning include impaired vision, convulsions, coma and death from heart or respiratory failure.