False toadflax (Geocaulon lividum)

Other names earthberry, northern comandra

False toadflax (Geocaulon lividum)
(c) Brittany Swett, all rights reserved, uploaded by Brittany Swett

At a glance

Lifecycle
Perennial (hardy)
Exposure
Full sun

Cultivation

We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, though judging by its native range it should succeed outdoors in many parts of this country. The plant might be a root parasite[K]. See the plants native habitat for ideas on its cultivation needs.

Propagation

Seed - we have no information for this species but suggest sowing the seed in a greenhouse as soon as it is ripe if this is possible, otherwise in spring in a greenhouse. The plant might be a root parasite, further research is required. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for at least their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts.

Edible uses

Fruit. No more details are given.

Medicinal uses

A decoction of the chewed leaves and bark has been used as a purgative.

Habitat

Moss or damp humus.

Native range

Northern N. America - Labrador to Alaska.