Great Valley Gumweed (Grindelia robusta)

At a glance

Lifecycle: Perennial (hardy)
Exposure: Full sun
Frost limit: −17.8 °C

Cultivation

Succeeds in any well-drained soil in full sun. Plants tend to concentrate selenium in the leaves and stems, this is especially noticeable on soils that are relatively rich in that element. Some authorities class this species as a synonym of G. camporum.

Propagation

Seed - sow autumn or spring in a cool greenhouse and only just cover the seed. Prick out the plants into individual pots when they are large enough to handle and plant them out into their permanent positions in early summer.

Edible uses

Leaves - raw.

Medicinal uses

The leaves and flowering tops are antiphlogistic, antispasmodic, balsamic, demulcent, expectorant, sedative, stomachic and a vascular tonic. The fluid extract is prepared by placing the freshly gathered leaves and flowers in a small quantity of simmering water for about 15 minutes. The plant is used to treat people affected by poison-ivy.

Material uses

Yellow and green dyes are obtained from the flowering heads and pods. Aromatic. A decoction of the roots has been used as a hair shampoo to kill lice.