Blephilia hirsuta
(Pursh) Benth.
Cherokee mint, Hairy wood-mint
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Summary
Source: WikipediaBlephilia hirsuta, commonly known as hairy wood-mint or hairy pagoda plant, is a species of herbaceous perennial in the mint family Lamiaceae. It is native to eastern North America.
Description
Perennial herb growing to 0.7 meters tall by 0.4 meters wide at medium rate. Hardy to UK zone 4. Bee and insect-pollinated flowers. Grows in light sandy to medium loamy, well-drained soils with mildly acid to neutral pH, tolerating very acid soils. Adapts to semi-shade or full sun; handles both dry and moist soil.
Edible Uses
Edible Parts: Leaves Edible Uses: Leaves. Minty leaves eaten raw and used in teas. The fresh or dried leaves are used for tea [1-4].
Traditional Uses
The fresh or dried leaves are used for tea.
This uses section is brief — help expand it
Medicinal Uses
None Known
Distribution
It is a temperate plant. It suits hardiness zones 4-7.
Where It Grows
North America, USA,
Propagation
Propagate by division or by Seed
Other Uses
A strong scented plant that may act as an aromatic pest confuser reducing their ability to find other nearby crops [1-3]. A good plant for food forests, wild, native plant or open woodland gardens. Special Uses Food Forest
Synonyms
References (3)
- Facciola, S., 1998, Cornucopia 2: a Source Book of Edible Plants. Kampong Publications, p 125
- Jackes, D. A., Edible Forest Gardens
- Kermath, B. M., et al, 2014, Food Plants in the Americas: A survey of the domesticated, cultivated and wild plants used for Human food in North, Central and South America and the Caribbean. On line draft. p 134
