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Common Name: Frostweed
Helianthemum canadense is a
Eastern N. America - Maine to Ontario and Wisconsin, south to North Carolina and Mississippi.
Open woods, clearings and barrens in dry sandy soils[
Requires a light well-drained soil in a sunny open position[
]. Tolerates a pH range from 5.5 to 8[
The dried leaves are alterative, antiscrofulatic, astringent and tonic[
A tea made from the leaves is used in the treatment of kidney ailments and sore throats[
]. A strong leaf tea has been used in the treatment of scrofula[
]. It is applied externally to skin diseases and eye infections[
]. It is said that an oil helpful in the treatment of cancer has been obtained from the plant[
Some caution is advised since an overdose can cause nausea and vomiting[
Seed - sow spring in a greenhouse. 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.
Cuttings of half-ripe wood, 6 - 8cm with a heel, late summer in a sandy soil in a frame[