What is the Balm of Gilead?

Also known as Canary Balm. From the family Labiatae

Although this herb originates from Madeira and the Canary Islands, as indicated by its species name, balm of Gilead is now established in many temperate regions of the world. Many plants have been called balm of Gilead; the common link is that they all have a musky, eucalyptus, camphor-like scent.

The Queen of Sheba gave Solomon a balm of Gilead, which was Commiphora opobalsamum, an aromatic desert shrub found in the Holy Land. Today this plant is rare and protected, its export prohibited.

The balm of Gilead mentioned in the Bible (Ts there no balm in Gilead; is there no physician there?  was initially held to be Commiphora meccanensis which was an aromatic shrub.

However some now say it was oleo-resin obtained from Balsamodendron opobalsamum, a plant now thought to be extinct. Whatever is the case, the medicinal balm of Gilead is populous balsamifera. This is balsam poplar; a tree found growing in several temperate countries, which smells heavenly in early summer, while the herb now known as balm of Gilead is Cedronella canariensis. This is said to have a similar scent to the Biblical shrubs, perhaps the reason for its popular name.

Species

Cedronella canariensis (triphylla)

Balm of Gilead

Half-hardy perennial, partial evergreen. Ht lm (3ft), spread 60cm (2ft). Leaves with strong eucalyptus scent, 3 lobes and toothed edges, borne on square stems. Pink or pale mauve, two-lipped flowers throughout summer. Black seed heads.

Cultivation

Propagation

Seed

The fairly small seeds should be sown directly on the surface of a prepared pot, plug or seed tray. Cover with a layer of Perlite. It is a temperamental germinator so bottom heat of20°C(68°F) can be an asset. If using heat remember no! To let the compost dry out, and only water with a fine spray when needed. The seedlings will appear any time between 2-6 weeks. When 2 leaves have formed, prick out and plant in position lm (3ft) apart.

Cuttings

More reliable than seed. They take readily either in early summer before flowering on new growth or in early autumn on the semi-ripe wood. Use the bark, peat, grit mix of compost.

Pests and Diseases

Being aromatic, aphids and other pests usually leave it alone, but the seedlings are prone to damping off.

Maintenance

Spring: Sow seeds under protection. In a warm garden a mature plant can self-seed; rub the leaves of any self-seedlings to see if it is balm of Gilead or a young nettle (but don't get slung!). At this stage their aroma is the only characteristic which tells Diem apart. Plains over-wintered in containers should be repotted if root-bound and given a liquid feed.

Summer: Cut back after flowering lo keep it neat and tidy, and also to encourage new growth from which late cuttings can be taken.

Autumn: Take stem cuttings. Collect seed heads.

Winter: Protect from frost.

Garden Cultivation

Balm of Gilead grows happily outside in sheltered positions. Plant in a well-drained soil in full sun, preferably against a warm, wind-protecting wall. The plant has an upright habit but spreads at the top, so planting distance from other plants should be approximately lm (3ft).

It is a tender plant which may need protection in cooler climates. If you get frosts lower than -2°C (29°F) protect the plant for the winter, either by bringing it into a cool greenhouse or conservatory or by covering in an agricultural fleece.

Harvest

Pick leaves for drying before the flowers open, when they will be at their most aromatic.

Either pick flowers when just coming into bloom and dry, or wait until flowering is over and collect the black flower heads (good for winter arrangements).

Seeds are ready for extraction when you can hear the flower heads rattle. Store in an airtight container to sow in the spring.

Container growing

Balm of Gilead makes an excellent container plant 23-25cm (9-10in) pot will be required for a plant to reach maturity. Use a free-draining compost with bark and grit. Liquid feed a mature plant monthly throughout summer. When grown in a conservatory, the scent of the leaves perfumes the air especially when the plant is watered or the sun shining on it. Flowers are long lasting and give a good show during the summer. Keep watering to the absolute minimum in the winter months.

Other uses

Dried leaves combine well in a spicy or woody potpourris with cedar wood chippings, rosewood, pineneedles, small fur cones, cypress oil and pine oil. Add an infusion of the leaves to bath water for an invigorating bath.

Medicinal

Crush the leaves in your hand and inhale the aroma to clear your head. Rub the leaves on skin to stop being bitten by mosquitoes. Said to be an Aphrodisiac when applied....no comment.