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Vaccaria hispanica
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The Vaccaria hispanica plant species is found in C. and S. Europe, north to Belgium. An introduced and not infrequent casual in Britain[17]. It is a member of the Caryophyllaceae family. Some home gardeners know the variety as V. pyramidata. V. segetilis. V. vulgaris. Saponaria vaccaria. L. Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses
Latin Name: Vaccaria hispanica
Family: Caryophyllaceae
Author: (Mill.)Rausch.
Known Hazards: The seeds and other parts of the plant contain saponins[218, 240]. Although toxic, these substances are very poorly absorbed by the body and so tend to pass through without causing harm, they are also broken down if thoroughly heated[K]. Saponins are found in many plants, including several that are often used for food, such as certain beans. It is not advisible to eat large quantities of food that contain saponins. Saponins are much more toxic to some creatures, such as fish, and hunting tribes have traditionally put large quantities of them in streams, lakes etc in order to stupefy or kill the fish[K].
Mature Height: 0.6 Mature Width:
Habitat: A weed of cultivated fields[50].
Cultivation Notes: Succeeds in any well-drained soil in a sunny position[200].
Sometimes cultivated for its seed which is often added to wild bird foods[200]. By this means, the plant is often found as an introduced casual in Britain[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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