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- This little plant is widespread on disturbed ground and emerged at the end of April between the tarmac of Cowbar Lane and the newly installed bund.
- It is part of the cabbage / mustard family (Brassicaceae) and is one of the most common wildflowers in the world. It flowers all year.
- A single plant can produce 2,000 to 3,000 seeds which are long lived in the soil and germinate when the ground is disturbed.
- Its seed pods are shaped like the food pouches shepherds used to carry. The seeds are copper coloured and look like coins. They germinate quickly and are produced all year so Shepherd’s Purse is often accused of being ‘a weed’.
- It is also known as blind weed, bad man’s oatmeal, cocowort, lady’s purse, mother’s heart, shepherd’s heart, St James’ weed and witch’s pouch.
- The stems, leaves and flower are said to be medicinal. Shepherds Purse is sold in dried form or liquid extract capsules or as tea. It is supposed to help wounds to heal, improve bleeding conditions, kidney problems and circulation and heart conditions. It is also said to prevent scurvy (is ‘antiscorbutic’).
