Eriodictyon trichocalyx
| Eriodictyon trichocalyx | |
| Light: |  |
| Moisture: |   |
| Hardiness: | 8 |
| Soil pH: | 5.6-8.4 |
| Evergreen | |
| Height: | 7' |
| Native to: | |
| Edible Rating: |  |
| Medicinal Rating: |  |
| Tea: | Yes |
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Eriodictyon trichocalyx (common name: hairy yerba santa)
Propagation: Seed - sow spring in a greenhouse[1]. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for at least their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts.
Cultivation: Requires a position in full sun in a well-drained sandy soil[1].
This species is not hardy in the colder areas of the country, it tolerates temperatures down to about -5°c[1]. It is probably best grown against a sunny wall.
Range: South-western N. America - California to Mexico.
Habitat: Dry hills[1].
Edibility: The fresh or dried leaves have been used as a tea[2].
The leaves have been used as a wayside nibble to quench the thirst[2].
Medicinal: The leaves are blood purifier and febrifuge[2]. A poultice of the freshly pounded leaves has been applied to relieve the pain of rheumatic joints[2]. A decoction of the leaves has been taken internally to treat TB, sore throats, rheumatism, asthma, catarrh, fevers, coughs and colds[2].
Usage: Planted as a fire-break and also for erosion control in California[1].
Soil: Can grow in light soils.
Drainage: Prefers well drained soil.
In Leaf: Evergreen
Flower Type: Hermaphrodite
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