Chamerion angustifolium
- It belongs to a large family of willowherbs
- Two centuries ago it was rare in Britain.
- It’s a ‘pioneer plant’ which thrives on rough ground. Colonies grow on old railway tracks, quarries and rough grassland. It was called ‘Bombweed’ as it grew on bombsites after the Blitz and symbolised London’s regeneration and regrowth.
- It has edible roots, shoots, leaves and flowers (In Alaska it is made into syrups, jellies, ice cream and honey, in Russia the leaves are used for tea.)
- A piece of raw stem can be used to treat cuts and boils
- It grows on Cowbar on the earth mound separating the Cleveland Way from the allotments by the cliff edge. It likes rough and recently disturbed soil.
- Flowers from July to September
