COMMON MULLEIN

The Common Mullein, or verbascum thapsus, was introduced to my front yard by a friend who referred to it as the "Grand Wizard of the Ontario Roadside".  His attempts at cultivation were unsuccessful, however, many years later this spectacular example of the species sprouted.  

Turns out the tiny seeds can remain in the soil for up to a hundred years, often sprouting after a forest fire or a clearing of other vegetation.  The plant is biennial, producing a rosette of soft and hairy leaves the first year, followed by the tall stalk of yellow flowers the subsequent summer. The plant usually dies after this display, scattering almost a quarter million seeds.

Mullein has been used for medicinal reasons for over 2000 years.  It is most effective against afflictions of the lungs such as consumption, croup and coughs. The yellow flowers can be used to create a yellow or green dye and the stalk can be soaked in wax to create a torch.  

Imported to North America in the early 1800's, Mullein quickly spread to all states and southern Canada.  In some regions it carries the vernacular name "Cowboy's toilet paper".  Driving north, you can see Common Mullein along the road and the further you drive, the shorter the stalks. None of these northern brothers can rival the 9' monster dominating my yard, impressive enough to entice a woodpecker:

PEONY

The peony in my backyard refused to bloomed.  Last year I finally moved it to full sun and my labour has been rewarded with 3 flowers.  I've been enjoying watching the ants collecting the sweet nectar that the buds produce; although not necessary for the pollination of the flower, the busy ants are a great reminder to stop smelling the flowers and get back to work.

Peony was named for Paeon, a student of Asclepius, the Greek god of medicine and healing. Paeon discovered that the peony could be used to alleviate the suffering of childbirth.  Zeus eventually turned Paeon into the flower that bears his name to save him from Asclepius' jealous rage.  

Peony root is still used medicinally as a sedative, diuretic, and astringent.  The root contains the antioxidant paeoniflorin that may boost the immune system and reduce the effects of stress.  It has been shown to ease menstrual cramps, reduce PMS and the effects of menopause.  Peony should not be used for a prolonged period and never by a pregnant woman.  The plant need to be dug up and separated every 10 years or so.  This is a great time to harvest the beneficial roots.

BEE BALM

Also known as Monarda, named after the Spanish botanist Nicholas Monardes, Bee Balm is a genus of   several flowering plant species belonging to the mint family.  Adding wonderful colour to your garden through July and August, this easy to grow plant is true to its name, attracting many bees at work.  It seemed that only harsh rain could keep the bees from the patch in my yard.

The plant has antiseptic qualities:  a poultice will treat minor wounds and infections and a tisane is good for throat and mouth issues such as gingivitis.  You can also use it to treat flatulence, headache, fever or you can throw some flowers in your salad for a little excitement.