Narrow-Leaf Gromwell, Narrowleaf stoneseed

Lithospermum incisum

Basic Information

Family: Boraginaceae

Genus: lithospermum

Plant ID (slug): lithospermum-incisum

Numeric ID: 23095

USDA Hardiness: 3-7

Ratings

Physical Characteristics

Lithospermum incisum is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.3 m (1ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3. It is in flower in June. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

Central N. America - British Columbia to Manitoba, south to Illinois, Texas and Arizona.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Root Edible Uses: Tea Root - cooked[105, 161, 207, 212]. Eaten boiled or roasted[257]. The root has been used to make a tea[257].

Medicinal Uses

Contraceptive Kidney Miscellany Ophthalmic Pectoral Stomachic The root has been chewed by some native North American Indian tribes as a treatment for colds[213]. The finely powdered leaves, root and stem have been rubbed on the body in the treatment of paralyzed limbs[257]. An infusion of the root has been used in the treatment of stomach aches and kidney problems[257]. The plant has been eaten as an oral contraceptive and also as a treatment for lung haemorrhages, coughs and colds[257]. A cold infusion of the pulverized root and seed has been used as an eyewash[257]. This plant was used as a medicine by various native North American Indian tribes and interest in the plant has revived recently as a possible source of modern drugs[212]. No more details are given.