Yerba Buena

Micromeria chamissonis

Physical Characteristics

Micromeria chamissonis is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.1 m (0ft 4in) by 0.3 m (1ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in flower from April to May. 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. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

Western N. America - southern British Columbia to southern California.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Edible Uses: Tea The dried leaves, steeped in boiling water, make a palatable mint-flavoured tea[183, 207, 256, 257]. The dried leafy spines are used according to other reports[161, 177].

Medicinal Uses

Anthelmintic Aphrodisiac Blood purifier Digestive Febrifuge Kidney Sedative Tonic The whole plant is aphrodisiac, blood purifier, mildly digestive, febrifuge, sedative and tonic[207, 256, 257]. An infusion can be used in the treatment of insomnia, colic, upset stomachs, kidney problems, colds and fevers[257]. A decoction of the plant has been used to get rid of pinworms[257]. The decoction has also been used as an aphrodisiac[257]. A poultice of the warm leaves have been applied to the jaw, or the plant held in the mouth, as a treatment for toothache[257].

Known Hazards

None known