Horehound

Horehound is a common name for plants in the genus Marrubium. The most well-known species is Marrubium vulgare, also known as white horehound. Horehound is native to Europe, northern Africa, and southwestern and central Asia. It has been naturalized in many parts of the world, including North and South America and Australia.

Description

Horehound is a perennial herb that grows up to 45 cm high. It has a square stem, which is typical for plants in the Lamiaceae family. The leaves are oval, wrinkled, and have a woolly texture. The flowers are small, white, and grow in clusters.

Uses

Horehound has been used for centuries in herbal medicine. It is known for its expectorant properties, meaning it can help clear mucus from the lungs. It is often used in cough drops and lozenges. In addition to its medicinal uses, horehound is also used as a flavoring in foods and beverages, particularly in horehound candy, a type of hard candy made from horehound tea.

Cultivation

Horehound is a hardy plant that can grow in a variety of conditions, but it prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It is drought-tolerant and can grow in poor soil conditions. Horehound can be propagated by seeds, cuttings, or division.

Conservation Status

While horehound is not currently considered threatened or endangered, it is considered a noxious weed in some areas due to its ability to spread and outcompete native plants.

References

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