Rayless arnica
Arnica diversifolia
Family: Asteraceae or Compositae
What it is like
Arnica diversifolia is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.3 m (1ft). The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Apomictic (reproduce by seeds formed without sexual fusion), 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 and neutral soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.
Height (m): 0.3
Where it is found
Rocky places from moderate to high elevations in mountains.
Western N. America - Alaska to California.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 0
Medicine
Rating: 1
Antiecchymotic, antiphlogistic, nervine, sternutatory, vulnerary.
Antiecchymotic: Prevents or treats bruising.
Antiphlogistic: Reduces inflammation.
Nervine: Stimulates and calms the nerves.
Sternutatory: Promotes sneezing and nasal discharges.
Vulnerary: Promotes the healing of wounds.
Other
Rating:
This plant is used as a hair conditioner. No further details are given.
Hair: Plants used as hair shampoos, tonics, to treat balding etc.
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 most parts of this country. This is a convenient name for a complex of apparent hybrids involving A. mollis or A. amplexicaulis with A. cordifolia or A. latifolia. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Prefers a moist, well-drained humus rich soil, preferably lime-free. Prefers a mixture of sand, loam and peat.
Propagating it: Seed - sow early spring in a cold frame. Only just cover the seed and make sure that the compost does not dry out. When large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse or cold frame for their first winter. Plant out in late spring or early summer. Division in spring.
Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Sunny Edge;
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness: 0-0
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: Semi-shade, no shade
Moisture: Moist
Things to keep in mind
The whole plant is toxic and should only be used for external applications to unbroken skin.