Ballota nigra Black horehound (Labiatae)

Browse Plants Articles

Power Search!

Browse Botanic Names

Sponsored By KhorWills

Ballota nigra
Black horehound
(1 Page of 5)

The Ballota nigra plant species is found in Britain. It is a member of the Labiatae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Black horehound.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Ballota nigra
Common Name:  Black horehound
Family:  Labiatae
Author:  L.

Known Hazards:  None known

Mature Height:  0.9   Mature Width:  0.75

Habitat:  Waste ground, hedgerows, woods and shady places[13].

Cultivation Notes: Prefers a well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade[134, 238]. Avoids acid soils in the wild but tolerates a pH down to 5 in cultivation[200]. This species is not hardy in the colder areas of the country, it tolerates temperatures down to between -5 and -10°c[200]. This species is widely grown in herb gardens, but little employed because of its strong flavour[238]. Its essential oil is used to adulterate the oil of white horehound (Marrubium vulgare)[238]. The leaves emit a most unpleasant smell when bruised, somewhat like stale perspiration[245]. Plants can self-sow freely when well-sited[238]. There is at least one named variety selected for its ornamental value[238]. The whole plant has an offensive odour[4].

For further Ballota nigra gardening information
click on one of the blue links below

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'.
View their bibliography
Useful Edible Plants Future