SafePlants

Horse Balm (Collinsonia spp.)

The text mentions several species referred to as "Horse Balm," including:

• Collinsonia canadensis (Canada Horse Balm, Northern Horse-Balm, Citronella Horse Balm)
• Collinsonia serotina (Southern Horse-balm, Blue Ridge Horsebalm)
• Collinsonia verticillata (Whorled Horsebalm)
• Collinsonia tuberosa (Deepwoods Horsebalm)

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• The text indicates that "Southern Horse-balm" and "Blue Ridge Horsebalm" are common names for Collinsonia serotina, which is listed as "Accepted" in terms of taxonomic status.

Distribution and Habitat

• These plants are found in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Blue Ridge Parkway, Southern Appalachian Mountains, Grandfather Mountain corridor, Welch Ridge, Oak-Hickory Ridge Forest, and Northern Virginia Blue Ridge.
• Specific locations mentioned include the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina and the Great Smoky Mountains.
• They can be found growing beside roads and in stream valley habitats.

Morphological Characteristics

• Horse Balm is described as having half-inch-wide flowers and egg-shaped leaves.

Considerations for Pets

• The plant is associated with horses in many contexts, including horse shows, horse riding trails, and even lip balm for horse lovers. This suggests it may be commonly found in areas where horses are present.

Considerations for Children

• Horse Balm is mentioned as being present in forests and along hiking trails, including those in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Southern Appalachians, and Pisgah National Forest, where children may be present.

Quirky Facts

• The text refers to a "Blue Ridge Classic Horse Show."
• There's mention of "I Love Horses Lip Balm."