Great Valley Gumweed

Grindelia robusta

Physical Characteristics

Grindelia robusta is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in flower from May to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in saline soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought.

Distribution

South-western N. America.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Edible Uses: Leaves - raw[257].

Medicinal Uses

Antispasmodic Blood purifier Demulcent Expectorant Parasiticide Sedative Stomachic The leaves and flowering tops are antiphlogistic, antispasmodic, balsamic, demulcent, expectorant, sedative, stomachic and a vascular tonic[4, 7, 21, 46, 61, 207, 213]. Blood purifier[4]. The plant is applied externally as a compress on inflamed or irritated areas of the skin[7, 257]. Used internally, it slows down the heartbeat and reduces the stimulation of the nerve endings in the air passages that causes coughing - it is therefore extremely effective as a calming agent in the treatment of asthma[7]. The fluid extract is prepared by placing the freshly gathered leaves and flowers in a small quantity of simmering water for about 15 minutes[213]. The plant is used to treat people affected by poison-ivy[213].

Known Hazards

None known