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black horehound
Scientific Name: Ballota nigra var. alba
Family: Lamiaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Forb/herb
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Black Horehound (Ballota nigra)
Black horehound, scientifically known as Ballota nigra, is a perennial herb with a history of traditional uses. It's important not to confuse it with white horehound, as they have different properties.
Considerations for Pets
- Black horehound is described as having a "fetid odor" or being "unpleasant-smelling." Animals might be averse to the scent, but it could also attract some depending on the individual.
Considerations for Children
- The plant is noted to have a strong, unpleasant taste.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Ballota nigra
- Common Names: Black Horehound, Black Stinking Horehound, Stinking Roger, Fetid Hoarhound, Marrubium nigrum, Black Archangel
- Family: Lamiaceae (also known as Labiatae or Mint Family)
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to the Mediterranean region and central Asia.
- Also found in Europe and northern Africa, with scattered locations in North America.
- Grows in hedgerows, roadside verges, waste grounds, woods, open areas, pavement cracks, and near human habitation.
Ecological Role
- Considered a weed in Europe.
- Thrives in disturbed areas and can be found along roadsides.
Morphological Characteristics
- Perennial herb, typically growing to a height of 30-100 cm.
- Stem is wooded at the base and 4-edged.
- Leaves are ovate, arranged in pairs opposite each other, and attached by leaf-stalks.
- Leaf edges are dented, with a dark green upper surface and a paler underside showing a netted pattern.
- Flowers are pink to purple with two lips, arranged in dense whorls along the leafy stem.
- The plant has a calyx that is funnel-shaped.
- Green parts often turn a dirty purplish-black, which contributes to the common name.
- Aromatic plant, though often described as unpleasant-smelling.
Traditional Uses
- Traditionally used for heavy periods.
- Has a long history of herbal use.
- Historically used as an adulterant of other herbs.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Serves as a food source for certain insects, such as those that feed on its roots during the winter.
Quirky Facts
- Black horehound is sometimes referred to as "stinking" horehound due to its strong, unpleasant odor.
- The plant's green parts often turn a dirty purplish-black, which contributes to its common name.
Further Information
- WebMD
- Wikipedia
- Collins English Dictionary