Ononis repens Rest harrow (Leguminosae)

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Ononis repens
Rest harrow
(1 Page of 5)

The Ononis repens plant species is found in Britain. It is a member of the Leguminosae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Rest harrow. Some home gardeners know the variety as O. arvensis. Auct.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Ononis repens
Common Name:  Rest harrow
Family:  Leguminosae
Author:  L.

Known Hazards:  None known

Mature Height:  0.6   Mature Width:  1

Habitat:  Dry grassland on calcareous soils[5, 17].

Cultivation Notes: Prefers a sunny position in a well-drained neutral to alkaline soil[200]. Succeeds on the tops of walls and on dry banks[200]. Similar to O. spinosa, but this species is rhizomatous[200]. It can spread rapidly when well sited[1] and has become an obnoxious weed in some areas[245]. Mature roots are very tough and the plant gained its common name of 'Rest Harrow' because ploughs and harrows would be unable to break through it (in the days before heavy machinery was used on the land!). The whole plant emits a delicious resinous odour when bruised[245]. A food plant for the common blue butterfly[200]. Dislikes root disturbance[200]. This species has a symbiotic relationship with certain soil bacteria, these bacteria form nodules on the roots and fix atmospheric nitrogen. Some of this nitrogen is utilized by the growing plant but some can also be used by other plants growing nearby[200].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
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