Ballota nigra

Ballota nigra is a perennial herbaceous plant in the family Lamiaceae, native to the Mediterranean region and to central Asia. It is commonly known as black horehound.

Description

Ballota nigra is a perennial, strongly aromatic herb, growing to 0.6 m (2ft) by 0.5 m (1ft 8in). The leaves are dark green, hairy, and heart-shaped, and the flowers are pink to purple, produced in clusters. The plant has a very distinctive, unpleasant smell that is often compared to that of a skunk.

Distribution and habitat

Ballota nigra is native to the Mediterranean region and to central Asia. It has been introduced to other parts of the world, including North America, and is often considered a weed in these regions. It grows in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, woodlands, and urban areas.

Uses

Ballota nigra has been used in traditional medicine for its sedative and anti-spasmodic properties. It is also used as a flavoring in alcoholic beverages. However, the plant is toxic in large quantities, and its use is not recommended without medical supervision.

Cultivation

Ballota nigra is a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of conditions. It prefers well-drained soil and can grow in both full sun and partial shade. It is not frost tender and can be propagated by seed or by division in the spring or autumn.