Veronicastrum axillare
Family: Scrophulariaceae
What it is like
Veronicastrum axillare is a PERENNIAL growing to 1.8 m (6ft). It is in flower from July to August. 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): 1.8
Where it is found
Hillsides and gully edges. Forests, grasslands at forest margins, shaded places in valleys at low elevations.
E. Asia - China, Japan.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 0
Medicine
Rating: 2
The whole plant is antiphlogistic and depurative. It stimulates blood circulation and tissue repair. A decoction is used internally, or the plant can be crushed and applied externally, in the treatment of epidemic mumps, infected boils, ascites, rheumatoid arthralgia and traumatic injuries.
Antiphlogistic: Reduces inflammation.
Depurative: Eliminates toxins and purifies the system, especially the blood.
Other
Rating:
How it is grown
We have very little information on this species and do not know how hardy it will be in British gardens, though judging by its native range it is likely to succeed outdoors at least in the milder areas of the country. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Easily grown in a moderately fertile moisture retentive well drained soil. Prefers cool summers. Prefers a sunny position.
Propagating it: Seed - sow 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 quantity the seed can be sown outdoors in situ in the autumn or the spring. Division in autumn or spring. Larger divisions can be planted out direct into their permanent positions. We have found that it is best to pot up smaller divisions and grow them on in light shade in a greenhouse or cold frame until they are growing away well. Plant them out in the summer or the following spring.
Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness:
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: No shade
Moisture: Moist