Herb: Bastard Toad Flax


Latin name: Comandra umbellata


Family: Santalaceae (Sandalwood Family)



Medicinal use of Bastard Toad Flax:

An infusion of the leaves has been used to treat lung pains and laboured breathing caused by a cold or other illness. The juice of the plant has been applied externally to treat cuts and sores.

Description of the plant:



Plant:
Perennial


Height:
30 cm
(11 3/4 inch)

Flowering:
April
to June

Habitat of the herb:

Dry to moist sandy well-drained soils, especially those that are acid, from sea level to the sub-alpine zone.

Edible parts of Bastard Toad Flax:

Fruit - raw. A sweet flavour. The flowers are sucked by children for their sweet nectar.

Propagation of the herb:

Seed - stratify for 3 months at 5°C and then sow in the greenhouse in a pot with a suitable host. Plant out when it is well established close to a mature host plant.

Cultivation of Bastard Toad Flax:

Dry to moist sandy well-drained soils, especially those that are acid, from sea level to the sub-alpine zone.

Known hazards of Comandra umbellata:

None known

Plant information taken from the Plants For A Future.