Ballota nigra
TAXONOMY
FamilyLamiaceae
GenusBallota
Zone5
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Plants of the World OnlineABOUT
Ballota nigra, commonly known as Black Horehound, is a perennial herb in the Lamiaceae family. It is native to Europe and parts of Asia and is often found in temperate climates. The plant has a strong, unpleasant odor and is known for its medicinal properties. It typically goes dormant in the winter months.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Black Horehound
Marrubium Nigrum
Ballota foetida
Ballota foetida var. glabrescens
Ballota nigra subsp. meridionalis
Ballota nigra var. foetida
Ballota nigra var. meridionalis
Ballota nigra var. submitis
Ballota nigra var. subvillosa
Ballota sepium
Ballota sordida
Ballota urticifolia
Stachys ballota
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterDry
SoilLoamy
LightMedium (6 Hours)
Temperature18° C
Humidity50%
Dormancy3 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Ballota nigra prefers moderate temperatures and medium light conditions. It should be watered when the soil is almost completely dry. The plant thrives in moderate humidity and should be kept in a well-ventilated area. Regular pruning helps maintain its shape and encourages new growth.Soil
Ballota nigra prefers well-draining loamy soil. The soil should be kept moderately dry between waterings to prevent root rot. A soil mix that includes organic matter can help provide the necessary nutrients.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with a nutrient composition of 5-10-10. Fertilize the plant during the growing season, typically in spring and summer, to support its growth and flowering.Repotting
Repot Ballota nigra every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its current pot. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one and ensure it has good drainage. Repotting is best done in the spring.Propagation
Ballota nigra can be propagated through seed or cuttings. For cuttings, take a healthy stem in the spring or early summer and root it in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist until the cutting establishes roots.Pruning
Prune Ballota nigra regularly to remove dead or damaged stems and to maintain its shape. Pruning is best done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.Toxicity
Ballota nigra is not known to be toxic to pets or humans. However, it has a strong odor that may be unpleasant to some.Additional
Ballota nigra is often used in traditional medicine for its antispasmodic and sedative properties. It can be a useful addition to a medicinal herb garden.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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