Contents
Description
Marrubium Vulgare, commonly known as white horehound, is a perennial herb that belongs to the mint family Lamiaceae. Native to Europe, North Africa, and Asia, this plant has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. It grows up to 60 cm in height and has a woody stem with many branches. The leaves are woolly and wrinkled, with a light green color and a distinctive odor when crushed. The flowers are small and white, arranged in whorls around the stem.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Marrubium |
Appearance
The woolly leaves of Marrubium Vulgare are one of its most distinctive features. They are wrinkled and have a light green color, with a length of 2-4 cm and width of 1-2 cm. The stem is woody and square-shaped, with many branches that grow upright. The flowers are small and white, with a diameter of 2-3 mm, and arranged in whorls around the stem. The plant blooms from June to September.
Care Guide
Marrubium Vulgare is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun exposure. The plant can tolerate drought and poor soil conditions, but it grows best in fertile, well-drained soil. Watering should be done sparingly, as the plant can rot if the soil is too wet. Fertilization is not necessary, but a light application of compost or organic fertilizer in the spring can promote growth. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Marrubium Vulgare is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. These can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be affected by root rot if the soil is too wet, and powdery mildew if the air is too humid. To prevent these diseases, avoid overwatering and ensure good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Marrubium Vulgare is native to Europe, North Africa, and Asia, and can be found in dry, rocky areas such as hillsides, meadows, and waste places. It is adapted to a wide range of soil conditions and can tolerate drought and poor soil. It has been introduced to North America and is considered an invasive species in some areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Marrubium Vulgare safe for human consumption?
A: Yes, Marrubium Vulgare has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries and is safe for human consumption in small amounts. However, it should not be consumed in large quantities or by pregnant women.
Q: What are the medicinal benefits of Marrubium Vulgare?
A: Marrubium Vulgare has been used to treat respiratory infections, digestive disorders, and fever. It is also believed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Q: Can Marrubium Vulgare be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Marrubium Vulgare can be grown indoors in a sunny location. However, it may not flower as well as it would outdoors.
Q: Does Marrubium Vulgare attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Marrubium Vulgare is attractive to bees and butterflies and can be used in a pollinator garden.
Related Plants
- Marrubium supinum
- Marrubium cylleneum
- Marrubium peregrinum
- Marrubium aschersonii
References
- “Marrubium vulgare.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281479. Accessed 15 Apr. 2021.
- “White Horehound.” The Herb Society of America, www.herbsociety.org/herbs/documents/WhiteHorehound.pdf. Accessed 15 Apr. 2021.
- “Marrubium vulgare.” USDA, plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=MAVU2. Accessed 15 Apr. 2021.
