Elsholtzia fruticosa - (D.Don.)Rehder.
(D.Don.)Rehder.
Ji Gu Chai
gbif· cc-by-nc
Dorji Nima Yoezer
gbif· cc-by-nc
Dorji Nima Yoezer
gbif· cc-by-nc
Dorji Nima Yoezer
Description
Elsholtzia fruticosa is a deciduous Shrub growing to 1.5 m (5ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower from August to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.
Edible Uses
Oil. The powdered seeds are used as a condiment for flavouring foodstuffs. An edible oil is obtained from the seed.
Medicinal Uses
Anodyne Miscellany. One report says that the plant is used medicinally, but gives no more information. The juice of the roots is used to relieve headaches.
Distribution
E. Asia - China, Nepal.
Where It Grows
TEMPERATE ASIA: China (Gansu Sheng, Guangxi Zhuangzu Zizhiqu, Guizhou Sheng, Hubei Sheng, Sichuan Sheng, Xizang Zizhiqu, Yunnan Sheng) TROPICAL ASIA: Bhutan, India (Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Sikkim, Uttar Pradesh), Nepal, Pakistan (north), Myanmar
Cultivation
Grows well on woodland margins. This species is a sub-shrub, the woody stems often dying back to the base in severe winters.
Propagation
Seed - sow spring in a greenhouse or cold frame. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for at least their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts. Division in spring.
Other Uses
Incense Miscellany Oil Pot-pourri. The highly aromatic foliage is used in pot-pourri. The powdered plant is used for incense.
