Agrimony Agrimonia eupatoria
ABOUT
Agrimonia eupatoria, commonly known as common agrimony, is a perennial herb with a distinct appearance. This plant typically carries pinnate leaves that are rich green, comprising several pairs of leaflets. These leaflets are often toothed and deeply veined, giving them a textured look. At the end of its stems, common agrimony sports elongated spikes of small, star-shaped, yellow flowers. Each flower possesses five petals and gives off a subtle yet pleasant fragrance. When it blossoms, you can spot these flower spikes pointing skyward. The common agrimony also develops small, burr-like fruit clusters after the flowering season, which are adept at clinging to the fur and feathers of animals, aiding in seed dispersal. The stems are often covered in fine hairs, which can give the plant a soft or slightly fuzzy appearance. Overall, common agrimony has a graceful but robust presence with its vibrant leaves and cheerful yellow flowers.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Rosaceae
Synonyms
Common Agrimony, Church Steeples, Stickwort, Cockleburr, Sticklewort, Philanthropos
Common names
Agrimonia odorata, Agrimonia procera, Agrimonia grandis, Agrimonia officinalis, Agrimonia vulgaris.
ToxicityTo humans
Agrimonia eupatoria, commonly known as agrimony, is generally not considered toxic to humans when consumed in moderate amounts. It has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for various purposes, and there's no widespread evidence of significant toxicity in humans. However, excessive consumption of any plant, including agrimony, could potentially lead to adverse effects due to the presence of tannins and other compounds. These effects might include gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea or diarrhea. People with known allergies to plants in the Rosaceae family should also exercise caution, as they might experience allergic reactions.
To pets
Agrimony is not typically listed as a toxic plant to pets, such as dogs and cats. It has been used in herbal remedies for animals without widespread reports of adverse effects. However, as with any non-food plant, ingestion of large quantities could potentially cause mild gastrointestinal upset in some pets. If a pet consumes a large amount of agrimony, monitoring for symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhea is recommended, and consulting with a veterinarian may be necessary if any adverse symptoms appear.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
2 feet (0.6 meters)
Spread
1 foot (0.3 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Wildlife habitat: Agrimonia eupatoria provides shelter and food for various insects and birds.
- Soil stabilization: Its root system helps prevent soil erosion.
- Traditional dye: The plant has historically been used to create a natural yellow dye.
- Nutrient cycling: As a perennial plant, it returns nutrients to the soil during its decomposition process.
- Ornamental use: With its tall, slender spikes of yellow flowers, Agrimony is sometimes grown for its aesthetic appeal in gardens.
- Supporting biodiversity: The plant supports a variety of organisms, thus contributing to the overall biodiversity of the area where it grows.
Medical Properties- Astringent: Contains tannins which can help to tighten tissues and reduce bleeding.
- Diuretic: Promotes the production of urine, aiding in flushing the urinary tract.
- Anti-inflammatory: May reduce inflammation when applied topically or ingested.
- Antimicrobial: Exhibits potential resistance against bacteria and fungi.
- Hepatoprotective: Traditional use suggests it may help in protecting the liver.
- Antioxidant: Contains compounds that may help in preventing cellular damage from free radicals.
- Gastrointestinal Aid: Used in folk medicine to help soothe digestive issues.
- Cholagogue: May stimulate bile production and aid in the digestion of fats.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Agrimonia eupatoria, commonly known as agrimony, has been traditionally used as a natural dye for fabric, imparting a yellowish-brown color when used in dyeing processes.
- As a flavoring agent, agrimony has been added to beverages such as tea for its subtle, slightly bitter taste, enhancing the complexity of the tea's flavor profile.
- In historical food preparations, the plant has been used to coagulate milk in cheese-making processes, acting as a natural rennet alternative.
- Agrimony has been incorporated into potpourris and sachets for its delicate aroma, contributing to a blend of scents in natural air freshening products.
- The plant has sometimes been used in tanning leather, where the tannins present in agrimony help in the preservation and coloring of the leather material.
- In some cultures, agrimony was believed to ward off negative energies, and thus bundles were hung in homes for protection or used in various rituals.
- Gardeners have used agrimony as a companion plant to repel certain insects or attract beneficial predators, taking advantage of its pest-repellent properties.
- The decorative potential of agrimony has been harnessed in floral arrangements, where its spiky inflorescence adds a distinctive texture and height to bouquets.
- Agrimony has been used in the crafting of natural jewelry, where the dried seed heads or flowers are incorporated into eco-friendly accessories.
- Folk artists have included agrimony in their works, using the plant’s parts to create natural dyes for paints or as embellishments in paper making.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiAgrimony is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityAgrimony is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Protection – Agrimonia eupatoria, commonly known as Agrimony, has been used in folklore for its protective qualities. It was believed that carrying the plant could ward off negative energies and provide a shield against harm.
- Healing – Agrimony has a history of medicinal use. Symbolically, it represents healing of the mind and body, as it was traditionally used to treat various ailments.
- Sleep and Peace – The plant was often used in spells and potions to induce restful sleep or to bring peace of mind, making it a symbol for tranquility and rest.
- Truth and Honesty – Agrimony is sometimes associated with uncovering the truth, as it was thought that placing it beneath the head of a sleeping person would cause them to reveal their secrets upon waking.
- Overcoming Adversity – The ability of Agrimony to grow in adverse conditions symbolizes resilience and the capacity to overcome challenges and difficulties in life.
WaterAgrimony prefers evenly moist soil but is somewhat drought tolerant. During its active growth period in spring and summer, water the plant thoroughly, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Typically, providing about 1-2 gallons per week should be sufficient, depending on the weather and soil conditions. Reduce watering in the fall and winter when the plant is not actively growing. It's important to avoid overwatering, as agrimony does not like to sit in waterlogged soil.
LightAgrimony thrives in full sun to partial shade. The best spot for this plant is an area that receives at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily, with some afternoon shade in hotter climates. The plant will be more robust and produce more flowers when it gets enough light.
TemperatureAgrimony grows well in a wide range of temperatures but prefers temperate conditions. It can survive minimum temperatures down to about 10 degrees Fahrenheit. Ideally, it should be grown in an environment where the temperature remains between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal growth.
PruningPruning agrimony helps to maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead or damaged stems, and cut the plant back by about one-third to stimulate new growth. Pruning can be done annually or as needed when the plant becomes too leggy.
CleaningAs needed
SoilAgrimony prefers well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH between 5.5 and 7. A mixture of loam, sand, and organic compost can provide good drainage and fertility.
RepottingAgrimony should be repotted every 2 to 3 years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth since it doesn't like to be pot-bound.
Humidity & MistingAgrimony thrives in moderate humidity conditions. However, it is quite adaptable and can tolerate a range of humidity levels as long as its roots are not waterlogged.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Grow Agrimony in a bright, sunny location with well-drained soil mix.
Outdoor
Plant Agrimony in a sunny spot with well-draining soil and space for spread.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleCommonly known as Agrimony, Agrimonia eupatoria begins its life cycle as a seed, which germinates in spring when temperatures and moisture levels are adequate. The seedling emerges from the soil and develops into a rosette of pinnate leaves close to the ground. Over time, the plant matures and sends up a flowering stalk, typically in the early to mid-summer, where it produces spikes of small, yellow flowers that are pollinated by insects. Following pollination, the flowers develop into small, dry fruits containing seeds which are dispersed by animals or mechanical means when they stick to fur or clothing. During autumn, the plant begins to die back, with the above-ground parts deteriorating and leaving the perennial rootstock to overwinter in the soil. In the following spring, the rootstock regenerates new growth, and the cycle repeats.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to summer
Common Agrimony (Agrimonia eupatoria) is typically propagated by seeds. The best time to sow seeds is in late winter or early spring, when the threat of frost has passed. To propagate by seed, sow them directly into well-draining soil at a depth of about 1/4 inch (6-7 mm). The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged until germination, which usually occurs within a couple of weeks. Thinning the seedlings to prevent overcrowding can promote healthier growth and better air circulation among the plants. Once established, common agrimony will often self-seed, which can serve as a natural method of propagation for the following growing seasons.
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