Mi Meng Hua

Buddleia officinalis

Physical Characteristics

Buddleia officinalis is an evergreen Shrub growing to 2 m (6ft 7in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. It is in leaf all year, in flower from December to February. The species is dioecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but only one sex is to be found on any one plant so both male and female plants must be grown if seed is required). and is pollinated by Bees, Lepidoptera (Moths & Butterflies). The plant is not self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) 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 very alkaline soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought. It can tolerate atmospheric pollution.

Distribution

E. Asia - western China.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Antispasmodic Febrifuge Ophthalmic Febrifuge[147, 174, 178]. The flowers and flower buds are antispasmodic, slightly cholagogue and ophthalmic[176]. They have an action similar to vitamin P, reducing the permeability and fragility of the blood vessels of the skin and small intestine[176]. They are used in the treatment of various eye problems[176, 218]. They are also used in the treatment of gonorrhoea, hepatitis and hernia[218]. A decoction of the leaves is used in the treatment of collyrium[218]. Also used in the treatment of gonorrhoea, hepatitis and hernia[218].

Known Hazards

None known