Balm of Gilead, Canary balm
Cedronella canariensis

Family: Lamiaceae

What it is like

A small woody perennial shrub. It grows 1 m high and spreads 1 m wide. The stem is erect and branching. The leaves are soft and have wide teeth along the edge. The flowers are purple, small and tube shaped.

Possibly for perfume. There is only one Cedronella species.

Where it is found

It is a temperate plant. It does best in well-drained, moist and well-composted soils. It needs a protected sunny position. It needs to be in frost free areas. It is sensitive to drought. In Hobart Botanical gardens.

Countries/locations it is found in

Australia, Azores, Canary islands (country/location of origin), Madeira, St Helena, Tasmania

How it is used for food

Leaves are used for tea.

Edible parts

Herb, leaves - tea, leaves - spice

How it is grown

It can be grown from seed or cuttings. The plants can be divided in the spring.

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

Brittonastrum triphyllum (Moench) Lyons; Cedronella madrensis M. E. Jones; Cedronella triphylla Moench; Dracocephalum canariense L.; Dracocephalum ternatifolium Stokes;