Herb: Narrowleaf Pectis


Latin name: Pectis angustifolia


Family: Compositae



Medicinal use of Narrowleaf Pectis:

The plant is carminative and emetic. The crushed leaves have been used in the treatment of stomach aches. The blossoms, mixed with salt, have been eaten in the treatment of stomach complaints.

Description of the plant:



Plant:
Annual


Height:
25 cm
(9 3/4 inch)

Flowering:
July to
October

Scent:
Scented
Annual

Habitat of the herb:

Dry uplands, usually on calcareous soils. Dry soils in sandy or gravelly mesas, 1000 - 2100 metres in Arizona.

Edible parts of Narrowleaf Pectis:

Leaves and young shoots - raw or cooked. They are also used as a flavouring, they have a strong lemon-scent. The leaves are eagerly collected by the Hopi Indians.

Other uses of the herb:

The plant yields an inferior dye. No more details are given.

Propagation of Narrowleaf Pectis:

Seed - sow spring in a greenhouse. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and plant them out after the last expected frosts. If you have sufficient seed it may be worthwhile trying an outdoor sowing in situ in mid to late spring.

Cultivation of the herb:

Dry uplands, usually on calcareous soils. Dry soils in sandy or gravelly mesas, 1000 - 2100 metres in Arizona.

Known hazards of Pectis angustifolia:

None known

Plant information taken from the Plants For A Future.