Black Horehound (Ballota nigra)

Family: Lamiaceae or Labiatae | Edibility: Edible (1/5)

Ballota nigra is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.9 m (3ft) by 0.8 m (2ft 7in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from June to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

None known. — Harvested fresh in season according to PFAF botanical monograph.

Habitat & North American Range

Waste ground, hedgerows, woods and shady places, preferring nitrogen-rich, moist, rather loose soil. (Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9, Zone 10)