Motherwort, Siberian (Yi
Mu Cao)
Leonurus sibericus
Family: Lamiacea
Biennial, sometimes annual. Native to Siberia, Manchuria, China
and Mongolia. This incredible plant bears multiple, lithe stems topped
by ever-blooming, red-purple racemes which produce much nectar. The
dried flowering tops and leaf may be tinctured or made into a tea to calm
the nerves and promote menstrual flow. This was once a rare plant,
but I see it more and more in my travels, as gardeners learn how beautiful
it is and how easily grown. Cultivation: Easy.
Sow in greenhouse in very early spring, and transplant seedlings to average
soil in the early summer. Likes full sun and plenty of water.
The first year rosette is a lush, full bush. Space plants 2 feet
apart. Flowers to 6 feet in the second year.
Return
to Herb Seed Index