Used to thicken soup, a tea can be made from the leaves and the flowers can be used as a garnish or added to salads. Best sown in the autumn, can be sown all year round. Medicinal uses are for treating, coughs, colds, infections and also used in homeopathy. The plant can be used for hedging as a low hedge for flower beds, a dye plant, basketry and tanning. 20-25 C on the compost surface in greenhouse during February under shaded conditions.
Seed can take over two months to germinate and is erratic.
Grow in acidic soil in full sun to partial shade. Attracts wildlife into the garden. Used as a medicinal herb for the treatment of arthritis, infections, influenza and roots used as a laxative and tonic. Sow seed in spring in a cold frame. Grow in moist soil in full sun to partial shade.