Betony

Betony

Betonica officinalis

 

 

This is the fist time I have recorded Betony in my wildflower meadow, it is heartening to find new species appearing each year.  Also known as Common Hedgenettle and Bishopwort, this attractive purple flower has green, toothed foliage. Part of the Dead Nettle family, Lamiaceae, Betony is easily identifiable by its square stems and lipped flowers which are a magnet for bees and other pollinators

In the past Betony was thought to have important healing properties and was used to aid digestion and circulation. Edible, this flower can be dried or used fresh to make an aromatic tea with soothing and calming qualities. It was once considered a cure-all herbal medicine and was thought to aid concentration. Planted in churchyards to ward against ghosts and evil spirits in ancient folklore

Betony is a welcome addition to any wildflower area or meadow as its flowers are favoured by the Solitary Wool Carder Bee