Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca).
Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca) is a perennial herb that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine, particularly for women's health issues such as menstrual cramps, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), and postpartum recovery. It is also known by several other names, including lion's tail, lion's ear, and throw-wort. The plant is native to Central Asia but has been naturalized in many parts of the world, including Europe and North America. It grows in a variety of conditions, preferring moist, well-drained soils and partial shade to full sun.
History of Motherwort:
The use of motherwort dates back to ancient times. The Greeks and Romans were aware of its therapeutic properties, and it was a common herb in medieval gardens. It was often prescribed by herbalists for its calming effects on the nervous system and for heart-related ailments. In medieval times, it was thought to be particularly beneficial for women, hence the name "mother's herb." It was used to ease labor pains, stimulate lactation, and help with postpartum depression. In the Middle Ages, it was also considered a symbol of protection and was often placed in the shoes of new mothers to ward off evil spirits.
How to Sow Motherwort Seeds:
1. Timing: Motherwort seeds can be sown directly in the garden in the spring, after the last frost date, or started indoors about 6-8 weeks before the last frost for a head start.
2. Preparation: Choose a location with partial shade to full sun and soil that is well-draining and rich in organic matter. If starting indoors, use peat pots or cell trays filled with a seed-starting mix.
3. Planting Depth: Sow the seeds about 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) deep. Motherwort seeds are small and need light to germinate, so do not cover them with too much soil.
4. Spacing: Plant seeds about 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) apart if you are planting in the ground. If starting indoors, space them 2 inches (5 cm) apart and thin or transplant to the final spacing once they have their second set of true leaves.
5. Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Seeds should germinate in 10-14 days.
6. Thinning/Transplanting: If starting indoors, transplant the seedlings to their permanent location after the last frost date. If you've sown them directly outside, thin them to the desired spacing once they are about 3 inches (7.5 cm) tall.
7. Care: Motherwort does not require a lot of care once established. It can tolerate some drought but prefers moist conditions. It can be invasive, so it's a good idea to contain it with a barrier or regularly cut back the spreading stems.
8. Flowering and Harvest: Motherwort will produce spikes of small, pink to purple flowers from mid-summer to early autumn. For medicinal use, harvest the leaves and flowering tops when the plants are in full bloom. The leaves can be used fresh or dried for later use.
Motherwort is relatively easy to grow and can be a beneficial addition to your garden for its ornamental value and potential medicinal uses. Remember to consult with a healthcare professional before using any herb for medicinal purposes.
Summary.
Motherwort seeds can be sown outside in late Spring, (or inside, 6-8 weeks before the last frost). Choose a location with partial shade to full sun and well-draining but damp soil. Sow 1/8 - 1/4 inch deep, do not cover completely as seeds need light to germinate which usually occurs in 10-14 days. It can tolerate some drought but prefers moist conditions. Motherwort produces spikes of small, pink to purple flowers from mid-summer to early autumn, which can be harvested for medicinal use. Thin or transplant seedlings to grow on 12-18 inches apart.