Marrubium vulgare
Family: Lamiaceae
Herbaceous perennial. Native to Europe, but naturalized throughout
the southern United States. Dense wooly flower whorls and grey-green
leaves characterize this hearty and drought-tolerant strain from the mountains
of New Mexico. Harvest the leaf just prior to blossoming and dry
it for tea, tincture, or to make into old-fashioned lozenges. The
plant contains volatile oils and a peculiar bitter principle (marrubiin)
which makes a stimulating and tonic medicine used for coughs, chronic catarrh
and colds. Cultivation: Easy. Sow seed in early
spring in greenhouse or directly in the garden. Requires very little
care and even less water. Plant 1 foot apart. Grows to 2 feet
tall.
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