Ivy-Leafed Toadflax

(Cymbalaria Muralis)

Description:

Introduced during the 1600's, a native of the Mediterranean region, into the Chelsa Botanical Gardens from Italy. It is now thoroughly naturalised to the UK, found mostly near houses, old garden walls, churchyards and cemeteries.

A trailing plant with purple, or light blue and white flowers, with yellow bumps near to the throat. Flowers are on individual stems and are produced abundantly from spring to autumn.

Ivy-like leaves divided into three to five rounded lodes are a dark green in colour. The backs of the leaves are a reddish purple. It spreads by inserting its seed capsules into crevices on walls and sends out pink thready stems and roots that take hold wherever they can get a grip.

Size: 5 x 60cm (height and spread)

Distribution: Throughout the UK

Flowering months: April to November

Habitat: Walls, churchyards and cemeteries

Folk Names: The Herb of the Madonna (Erba belle Madonna), Kenilworth Ivy, Ivywort. Aaron's Beard. Climbing Sailor. Creeping Jenny. Mother of Millions. Mother of Thousands. Thousand Flower. Oxford-weed. Pedlar's Basket. Pennywort. Rabbits. Roving Jenny. Wandering Jew

Effects: Protection, hex breaking

Planet: Mars

Element: Fire

Associated Deities: 

Traditions:

Magic: Hexes, protection, charms against spells, banishes negativity and hostile activity.

Edible Uses: Leaves have been used as a salad in southern Europe.

Medical Indications: Anti-scoubutic properties, reported to have been successfully administered in India for diabetes.

Other Uses: The flowers produce a clear but not permanent yellow dye.

(Photograph taken 30/05/2003 ©2003-2008 Ryewolf)

DISCLAIMER:
Please be aware that this information is provided solely for informational purposes only. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to using any herbs or treatments made from herbs.