Ploughman's Spikenard
Inula conyza

Family: Asteraceae or Compositae

What it is like

Inula conyza is a BIENNIAL/PERENNIAL growing to 1.2 m (4ft) by 0.4 m (1ft 4in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in flower from July to August, and the seeds ripen from August to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, flies. 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 and can grow in very alkaline soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Height (m): 1.2

Where it is found

Dry or rocky slopes and cliffs, also in open scrub on calcareous soils.

Central and southeastern Europe, including Britain, from Denmark to N. Africa and the Near East.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 0

Medicine

Rating: 1

The herb is antiscrofulatic, emmenagogue and vulnerary. The plant was considered to be a good wound herb and it was frequently taken in decoction for bruises, ruptures, internal wounds etc. It was applied externally to treat itchy skin.

Antiscrophulatic: Counteracts scrofula. (TB, especially of the lymph glands)

Emmenagogue: Promotes or increases the menstrual flow. In early stages of pregnancy it can induce an abortion.

Parasiticide: Treats external parasites such as ringworm This should perhaps be joined with Parasiticide in

Vulnerary: Promotes the healing of wounds.

Other

Rating:

The leaves are burnt and used as an insecticide and parasiticide, especially against fleas. Even the smell of the plant is said to drive fleas away. The root used to be burnt upon a fire in order to scent a room.

Incense: Aromatic plants that can be burnt to impart a pleasant smell, repel insects and disinfect closed areas.

Insecticide: Kills insects.

Parasiticide: Kills external body parasites such as hair lice.

Scented Plants: Plants noted for their scent

How it is grown

Succeeds in an ordinary garden soil in a sunny position. The basal leaves of this species are often mistaken for the foxglove, Digitalis purpurea. The basal leaves form a rosette that covers the ground for 30cm or more, destroying the grass underneath. All parts of the plant are refreshingly aromatic.

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. If you have sufficient seed, it is worthwhile trying a sowing in situ in the spring or the autumn.

Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; East Wall. In. West Wall. In.

Habit: Biennial/Perennial

Hardiness: 5-9

Growth:

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

Shade: No shade

Moisture: Moist

Things to keep in mind

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

I. squarrosa. non L. Conyza squarrosa.