Squinancy Wort
Asperula cynanchica
Family: Rubiaceae
What it is like
Asperula cynanchica is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.4 m (1ft 4in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4. It is in flower from June to 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 and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very alkaline soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.
Height (m): 0.4
Where it is found
Dry calcareous pastures and calcareous dunes.
Central and southeastern Europe, including Britain, to the Caucasus.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 0
Medicine
Rating: 1
The plant was at one time esteemed as a remedy for quinsy, but it is no longer used in herbal medicine.
Other
Rating: 1
A red dye is obtained from the root.
Dye: Plants that provide dyes.
How it is grown
Succeeds in almost any soil, including dry ones. Prefers a well-drained moisture retentive soil in sun or semi-shade.
Propagating it: Seed - sow spring to early summer in a light position in a cold frame. 2 weeks pre-chilling improves the germination rate. The seed usually germinates in 1 month at 10°c. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and plant them out in the summer. Division in spring or early summer. Basal cuttings of soft young shoots in early summer.
Best place to grow: Meadow; Cultivated Beds;
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness: 4-8
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: Semi-shade, no shade
Moisture: Dry, moist