Cancer Weed, Lyreleaf Sage

Salvia lyrata

Physical Characteristics

Salvia lyrata is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft) by 0.5 m (1ft 8in) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower from July to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

Eastern N. America - Pennsylvania to Florida, west to Texas and Illinois.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Diaphoretic Laxative Salve Warts The plant is diaphoretic and mildly laxative[222]. It can be used in the treatment of diarrhoea, coughs and colds[257]. The fresh leaves are applied to remove warts[207]. The plant is also a folk remedy for cancer[222]. The leaves and seeds are made into an ointment to cure wounds and sores[207]. The root can be used to make a salve for sores[222, 257].

Known Hazards

None known