Hepatica, Sharplobe hepatica, Roundlobe hepatica

Hepatica nobilis

Physical Characteristics

Hepatica nobilis is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.1 m (0ft 4in) by 0.1 m (0ft 4in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from February to March. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, flies, beetles, Lepidoptera (Moths & Butterflies). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very alkaline soils. It can grow in full shade (deep woodland) semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Europe.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; not Deep Shade;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Astringent Demulcent Diuretic Rubefacient Tonic Vulnerary The leaves and flowers are astringent, demulcent, diuretic, rubefacient, tonic and vulnerary[4, 7, 9, 21]. It is a mild remedy that is little used in modern herbalism, but it is sometimes employed in treating disorders of the liver and gall bladder, indigestion etc[4, 238]. Externally, it is applied to skin diseases, slow healing cuts etc[4, 9]. The plant should be harvested in March and April, it can also be dried for later use[4]. Use with caution[21], see notes above on toxicity.

Known Hazards

The plant is poisonous in large doses[13, 19, 21]. The toxic principle is dissipated by heat or drying[65].