Onosma hispidum
Wall.
gbif· cc-by-sa
GBIF
gbif· cc-by-sa
GBIF
gbif· cc-by-sa
GBIF
Description
Onosma hispidum is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.4 m (1ft 4in). The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought.
Edible Uses
Root. Used as a flavouring.
Medicinal Uses
Miscellany. One report says that the plant has medicinal properties but gives no details.
Known Hazards
There are no reports of toxicity for this species, but the following report for O. echioides should be borne in mind. The bristly stems and leaves can cause a good deal of irritation to the skin.
Distribution
E. Asia - Himalayas.
Where It Grows
TEMPERATE ASIA: Afghanistan TROPICAL ASIA: India (Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Uttar Pradesh), Pakistan (north)
Cultivation
We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, though judging by its native range it could succeed outdoors in many parts of this country. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Requires a well-drained soil in full sun. Prefers a deep rather rich sandy loam. Best grown in a crevice in a rock garden or on a wall. Tolerates hot dry conditions and also drought once it is established, but disliking winter wet. Plants also dislike wet summers.
Propagation
Seed - we have no information on this species but suggest sowing the seed in a greenhouse in early spring. Prick out the seedlings into individual pots as soon as they are large enough to handle and grow them on in the greenhouse for at least their first winter. Plant them out in early summer. Cuttings in a frame in the summer. Shade them for the first 10 - 12 days.
Other Uses
Miscellany. None known
