Senega Snakeroot
Polygala senega
Family: Polygalaceae
Herbaceous perennial. Native to eastern north America and Canada.
The knobby and characteristically keeled root of this plant from Saskatchewan
is a stimulating expectorant, used by the Native Americans as a treatment
for pneumonia. There is a strong undercurrent of interest in growing
this plant, due to continued demand and diminishing wild resources. Cultivation:
Extra care. Sow in summer, fall, midwinter or very early spring for
germination in the spring as the ground warms up. Transplant out
to moist woodlands or a shade garden. Space plants 6 inches apart.
Grows to 1 foot tall.
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