False Huckleberry, Rusty menziesia

Menziesia ferruginea

Physical Characteristics

Menziesia ferruginea is a deciduous Shrub growing to 1.8 m (6ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from May to June. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid soils and can grow in very acid soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Western N. America.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Nectar Edible Uses: Fruit - fresh or dried[61, 105, 183]. The fruit is about 5 - 7mm in diameter[200]. The nectar has been sucked from the flowers to sweeten the mouth[257].

Medicinal Uses

Cardiac Poultice Stomachic The leaves are cardiac[257]. They have been chewed to relieve heart pain and treat stomach problems[257]. A poultice of the heated leaves has been applied to sores and swellings[257].

Known Hazards

None known