Hare’s ear, Thorough wax, Thorowax, Thorow-wax
Bupleurum rotundifolium
Family: Apiaceae
What it is like
It is an annual or short lived perennial shrub. It grows 60 cm high and spreads 60 cm wide. The leaves are round and bluish-green. They wrap around the stem. The lower leaves have stalks. The flowers are small and bluish green. There are large bracts around the flower groups. The fruit is oblong and 3-3.5 mm long and smooth.
There are about 100 Bupleurum species.
Where it is found
It grows in dry open habitats. It grows best in well-drained alkaline soils. It needs an open sunny position. It is resistant to drought and frost. It suits hardiness zones 5-9.
Countries/locations it is found in
Africa, Armenia, Australia, Azerbaijan, Britain, Caucasus, Europe (country/location of origin), France, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Iran, Italy, Luxembourg, Mediterranean, Middle East, Netherlands, North Africa, North America, Russia, Spain, Turkey, Türkiye, USA
How it is used for food
The leaves are eaten raw in salads and as a pot-herb. It is also used as a spice.
Edible parts
Leaves
How it is grown
It can be grown from seed. The seed should be planted where the plants are to grow.