Black horehound
Ballota nigra · Lamiaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant black horehound: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous, dark green, slightly pubescent
- Flowering
- June to September, pink or purple flowers
- Adult size
- 60 to 100 cm tall, bushy habit
- Growth
- Fast and vigorous
- Hardiness
- Very hardy, down to -20°C
- Origin
- Central and southern Europe
- Soil type
- Well-drained, tolerates dry and poor soils
Care
Exposure and light
Black horehound prefers sunny or semi-shaded positions. It adapts well to warm and airy exposures. Choose a well-open location to promote air circulation and prevent stagnant moisture.
Watering
Water regularly during the growing season, especially during prolonged drought. Once established, the plant tolerates dry periods. Avoid excess water in winter which could promote root rot.
Soil preparation
Black horehound appreciates light, well-drained and rather poor soils. Amend lightly with sand or gravel to ensure good drainage if your soil is compact. Soil too rich in organic matter could reduce plant compactness.
Pruning and maintenance
Prune lightly in late winter to stimulate dense branching and maintain a compact shape. Remove dead or damaged stems. Regular deadheading extends summer flowering.
Fertilization
Undemanding, black horehound requires only very limited fertilizer applications. A light addition of ripe compost in spring is more than sufficient. Avoid excesses which could reduce hardiness and alter the scent of the leaves.
Diseases and pests
Very robust, it is rarely affected by diseases. Insufficient drainage or persistent moisture can cause root rot. Watch for aphids in early season, but they rarely cause significant damage.
Did you know?
Black horehound was once renowned for repelling ghosts and evil spirits; it was hung on doors in medieval Europe under the name 'black horehound.' Its Latin name 'Ballota' comes from the ancient Greek 'ballein' meaning 'to reject,' alluding to its traditional apotropaic use.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.