Moldavian Balm, Moldavian dragonhead
Dracocephalum moldavica
Family: Lamiaceae or Labiatae
What it is like
Dracocephalum moldavica is a ANNUAL 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. 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): 0.3
Where it is found
Dry hills, stony riverbanks and valleys at elevations from 200 - 2,700 metres in western China.
E. Europe to E. Asia.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 1
The lemon-scented leaves are used to make a tea. Young shoots. No further details are given.
Tea: the various herb teas that can be used in place of tea, plus the genuine article.
Medicine
Rating: 1
The seeds are astringent, carminative and tonic. They are used as a demulcent in the treatment of fevers. The plant is astringent, tonic and vulnerary.
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.
Tonic: Improves general health. Slower acting than a stimulant, it brings steady improvement.
Vulnerary: Promotes the healing of wounds.
Other
Rating:
The plant contains an essential oil, this is a possible source of citral.
Essential: Essential oils that are used in perfumery, medicines, paint solvents, insect repellents etc.
Scented Plants: Plants noted for their scent
How it is grown
Succeeds in a sunny position in a fertile well-drained soil. The plant is sometimes cultivated for its essential oil. The plant is very fragrant, with both the leaves and the flowers emitting a most refreshing scent of lemons. The flowers remain fragrant and fresh for several weeks. It is a useful plant for filling gaps in the summer border.
Propagating it: Seed - sow early spring in situ. Pinch back the shoot tips in May in order to encourage bushy growth.
Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;
Habit: Annual
Hardiness: 6-9
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: Semi-shade, no shade
Moisture: Moist