Skullcap herb and Skullcap medicinal
The various varieties of skullcap are natives of different
countries. They are found in America,
Britain, India, and one grows in the rain
forests of the Amazon. The name Scutellaria is derived from 'scutella', meaning a
small shield, which is exactly how the seed looks. The American Indians used Scutellaria lateriflora as a
treatment for rabies. In Europe it was used
for epilepsy.
Species
Scutellaria galericulata
Skullcap
Hardy perennial. Ht 15-50cm (6-20in), spread 30cm (12in) and
more. Small purple/blue flowers with a longer spreading lower lip in summer. Leaves bright
green and lance shaped with shallow round teeth. This plant is a native of Europe.
Scutellaria minor
Lesser skullcap
As S. galericulata except Ht 20-30cm (8-12in), spread 30cm
(12in) and more. Small purple/pink flowers. Leaves lance shaped with 4 rounded
teeth. Found on wet land.
Scutellaria lateriflora
Virginian Skullcap
As S. galericulata except Ht 30-60cm (12-24in), spread 30cm
(12in) and more. Leaves oval and lance shaped with shallow round teeth. Native
of America.
Cultivation
Propagation
Seed
Sow the small seeds in autumn into prepared seed or plug trays
and cover the seeds with compost. Leave the tray outside under glass. If
germination is rapid, winter the young seedlings in a cold greenhouse. If there
is no germination within 10-20 days leave well alone. The seed may need a
period of stratification. In the spring, when the plants are large enough,
plant out into a prepared site in the garden 30cm (12in) apart.
Root Cuttings
These produce a rhizomous root from which it is easy to take
cuttings. In spring dig up an established clump carefully, for any little bits
of root left behind will form another plant. Ensure each cutting has a growing
node; place in a seed tray and cover with compost. Put into a cold greenhouse
to root.
Division
Established plants can be divided in the spring.
Pests and Diseases
Skullcap is normally free from pests and disease.
Maintenance
Spring: Divide
established plants. Take root cuttings.
Summer: Cut back
to restrain.
Autumn: Sow
seeds.
Winter: No need
for protection, fully hardy.
Garden cultivation
Skullcap tolerates most soils but prefers a well-drained,
moisture retentive soil in sun or semi-shade. Make sure this plant gets
adequate water.
Harvest
Dry flowers and leaves for medicinal use only.
Container growing
This herb can be grown in containers but ensure its large
root system has room to spread. Use a soil-based compost. Feed only rarely with
liquid fertilizer or it will produce too lush a growth and inhibit (lowering.
Leave outside in winter in a sheltered spot, allowing the plant to die back.
Medicinal
The American skullcap is the best medicinal species; the two
European species are a little less strong. It is used in the treatment of anxiety, nervousness,
depression, insomnia and headaches. The whole plant is effective as a soothing
antispasmodic tonic and a remedy for hysteria and hydrophobia. Its bitter taste
also strengthens and stimulates the digestion. |
