Pleurospermum condollei
Family: Apiaceae or Umbelliferae
What it is like
Pleurospermum condollei is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.4 m (1ft 4in). 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 prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.
Height (m): 0.4
Where it is found
Found at elevations of 3,000 - 4,500 metres.
E. Asia - Himalayas.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 0
Medicine
Rating: 2
The entire plant is used in Tibetan medicine, where it is considered to have a bitter taste and a cooling potency. Antidote and febrifuge, it is used in the treatment of fevers from poisoning and spreading fever.
Antidote: Counters poisoning.
Febrifuge: Reduces fevers.
Other
Rating:
How it is grown
We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, though judging by its native range it should succeed outdoors in many parts of this country. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Succeeds in any moderately fertile soil in full sun. Plants are often monocarpic, living for a number of years without flowering and then dying after flowering.
Propagating it: Seed - we have no information on this species but suggest sowing the seed in spring in a cold frame. Prick out the seedlings into individual pots when they are large enough to handle and grow them on in the greenhouse for their first winter, planting them out early the following summer. Division might be possible in the spring.
Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness:
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: No shade
Moisture: Moist