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$9.50
Althaea officinalis
A very multi-functional as well as attractive plant, and the true marshmallow used to make the confectionery in the past (the root was dried, ground into a powder, made into a paste then roasted). The leaves can be used in salads in small quantities and finely chopped. Their slightly mucilaginous texture can be used to advantage to thicken soups etc, and the water from the boiled leaves or roots can be used as a substitute for egg whites. The root can also be used as a vegetable raw or cooked but is more of a famine food. The plant has been used medicinally since Greek and Roman times and has a soothing effect e.g. on the membranes of the respiratory and digestive tract. Externally the roots can be applied to bruises, sprains, aching muscles etc. The leaves are also used cosmetically for their soothing qualities, the roots can be used as an emergency toothbrush and can be chewed on by teething children. As if that was not enough, a fibre from the stem can be used to make paper and the roots can be boiled up for glue! The plants are happy in most garden situations but will benefit from rich moist soil. Herbaceous perennial to 120cm.
9cm pot. Certified organic plant.
N.B. Shipping costs are added AFTER you have placed your order, you will then be emailed an invoice with bank details.
Smallest box rate:
This can fit up to 9 plants in 9cm pots.
Shipping a single tree can be expensive. We may be able to fit more in the box for the same price! See our shipping rates for single and multi tree boxes.
Combining sizes?
No problem, we will work out the best rate for you once you’ve placed your order.
Jo has a passion for growing herbs but is not a qualified herbalist and has no medical background.
We are lucky to have Patricia Beagle working here at times, who is qualified, and some of her advice does appear on these pages, but herbs act differently for different people and can interact with other medicines. We therefore always recommend that you consult with your own qualified health-care practitioner before using herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing or on any medications.
Kahikatea Farm cannot take any responsibility for any adverse effects from the use of the plants or a plant not having the effect it is reputed to have.
