medicinal herbs
Common Moonwort
Botrychium lunaria
Herb: Common Moonwort
Latin name: Botrychium lunaria
Synonyms: Osmunda lunaria
Family: Ophioglossaceae (Adder's Tongue Family)
Medicinal use of Common Moonwort:
Moonwort has a long reputation as a vulnerary herb, the leaves are used externally as an ointment or taken internally. They are also used in the treatment of ruptures and dysentery.Description of the plant:
Plant:
FernHeight:
10 cm(4 inches)
Habitat of the herb:
Dry grassland and rock ledges, usually on peaty soils.Propagation of Common Moonwort:
Spores - best surface sown as soon as they are ripe in a greenhouse and do not allow the compost to dry out. Placing the pot in a plastic bag helps to maintain a humid atmosphere which promotes germination and growth. Prick out small clumps into pots when they are large enough to handle and keep moist until established. Grow on in a greenhouse for at least the first winter and plant out in late spring. Division. It is best not to try and disturb this plant.Cultivation of the herb:
Dry grassland and rock ledges, usually on peaty soils.Known hazards of Botrychium lunaria:
None knownPlant information taken from the Plants For A Future.