Musk Milfoil
Achillea erba-rotta moschata

Family: Asteraceae or Compositae

What it is like

Achillea erba-rotta moschata is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.2 m (0ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6 and is not frost tender. It is in flower in June, and the seeds ripen in July. 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, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil. The plant can tolerate maritime exposure.

Height (m): 0.2

Where it is found

Rocky slopes, alpine grassland and scree on calcareous soils in the Alps.

Europe

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 0

Medicine

Rating: 2

The leaves and flowering stems are appetizer, diaphoretic, digestive, diuretic, stomachic and tonic. An infusion is used in the treatment of liver and kidney disorders, as a tonic to the digestive system, exhaustion, nervous headaches etc. The plant is harvested in the summer and can be dried for later use.

Appetizer: Improves the appetite

Diaphoretic: Induces perspiration.

Digestive: Aids digestion.

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

Stomachic: Aids and improves the action of the stomach.

Tonic: Improves general health. Slower acting than a stimulant, it brings steady improvement.

Other

Rating:

How it is grown

Succeeds in most soils but prefers a well-drained soil in a sunny position. Lives longer in a poor soil. Hybridizes freely with other members of this genus. Plants succeed in maritime gardens.

Propagating it: Seed - sow spring or early autumn in a cold frame. The seed usually germinates in 1 - 3 months. When large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and plant them out in the summer. Division in spring or autumn. Very easy, the divisions can be planted direct into their permanent positions. Basal cuttings of new shoots in spring. Very easy, collect the shoots when they are about 10cm tall, potting them up individually in pots and keeping them in a warm but lightly shaded position. They should root within 3 weeks and will be ready to plant out in the summer.

Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;

Habit: Perennial

Hardiness: 5-9

Growth:

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

Shade: No shade

Moisture: Dry, moist

Things to keep in mind

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

A. moschata.