Lysimachia paridiformis
Family: Primulaceae
What it is like
Lysimachia paridiformis is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.3 m (1ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in flower from July to August. 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 can grow in heavy clay 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 or wet soil and can grow in water.
Height (m): 0.3
Where it is found
Hillsides, stream edges, damp and wet places beneath forest trees. Damp areas in forests, mountain valleys and wet ravines at elevations of 500 - 1400 metres.
E. Asia - W. China.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 0
Medicine
Rating: 2
The flowering tops, simmered in water, are carminative and diaphoretic. The whole plant is anodyne, antitussive, blood tonic, carminative and expectorant. A decoction is used in the treatment of pulmonary tuberculosis, 'wind-cold' coughing, rheumatoid arthritis, traumatic injuries, stomach ache, enteritis, snake bites and abscess swelling. The fresh herb is also crushed and applied externally as a poultice.
Anodyne: Relieves pain, it is milder than an analgesic.
Antitussive: Prevents or relieves coughing.
Blood tonic: Is this any different to a blood purifier?
Carminative: Reduces flatulence and expels gas from the intestines.
Expectorant: Clears phlegm from the chest by inducing coughing.
Other
Rating:
How it is grown
An easily grown plant, succeeding in a moist loamy soil. Judging by its native habitat, it should succeed in shallow water. Grows well in heavy clay soils. Most species in this genus seem to be immune to the predations of rabbits.
Propagating it: Seed - sow spring or autumn in a cold frame. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and plant them out in the summer. Division in spring or autumn. Larger clumps can be replanted direct into their permanent positions, though it is best to pot up smaller clumps and grow them on in a cold frame until they are rooting well. Plant them out in the spring.
Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; Pond; Bog Garden;
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness: 6-9
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: Semi-shade, no shade
Moisture: Moist, wet, water