Costmary
(Chrysanthemum
balsamita)
This is sometimes
known as Alecost and is a medium sized perennial that dies down
each winter. The leaves have a slight minty smell to them.
It prefers a
sunny, well-drained position. Propagation is by root cuttings in
spring. A word of caution - it is extremely invasive. For this reason
most people tend to grow it in a container. It is not possible to
propagate it from seed.
Harvesting
Pick fresh
leaves as required.
Uses
The leaves
are used in brewing, in stuffings or as a tisane.
Last updated
20 December, 2003
© copyright 1999, P. A. Owen