Shiny Elsholtzia
Elsholtzia splendens
Family: Lamiaceae or Labiatae
What it is like
Elsholtzia splendens is a ANNUAL growing to 0.4 m (1ft 4in). 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 cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.
Height (m): 0.4
Where it is found
Grassy areas in mountains in Korea. Hills and grassy areas at elevations up to 300 metres in China.
E. Asia - northern China, Korea.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 0
Medicine
Rating: 2
The whole plant contains an essential oil, monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes. It is used in Korea in the treatment of headaches, fevers, diarrhoea and oedema.
Diuretic: Acts on the kidneys, promoting the flow of urine.
Febrifuge: Reduces fevers.
Other
Rating:
How it is grown
An easily grown plant, it succeeds in most soils.
Propagating it: Seed - sow late spring in situ.
Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;
Habit: Annual
Hardiness:
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: No shade
Moisture: Moist