Squinancy Wort

Asperula cynanchica

Basic Information

Family: Rubiaceae

Genus: asperula

Plant ID (slug): asperula-cynanchica

Numeric ID: 20781

USDA Hardiness: 4-8

Ratings

Physical Characteristics

Asperula cynanchica is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.4 m (1ft 4in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4. It is in flower from June to July. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very alkaline soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

Central and southeastern Europe, including Britain, to the Caucasus.

Habitats

Meadow; Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

The plant was at one time esteemed as a remedy for quinsy, but it is no longer used in herbal medicine[4].