White Horehound (Marrubium vulgare)

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

Marrubium vulgare is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.5 m (1ft 8in) by 0.5 m (1ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from June to November, and the seeds ripen from August to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. The plant is self-fertile. It is noted for attracting wildlife.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Spring, Early Summer

Flavor & Culinary Uses

pungent, they are sometimes used to flavour herb beer or liqueurs. — The leaves are used as a seasoning.; Bitter and pungent, they are sometimes used to flavour herb beer or liqueurs.; Horehound ale is a fairly well-known drink made from the leaves.; A mild pleasantly flavoured tea is made from the fresh or dried leaves, it is a favourite cough remedy.

Habitat & North American Range

Downs, waste places and roadsides southwards from central Scotland, though perhaps only native near the south coast of England. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)