The Hedge Woundwort is a delicate upright plant with heart-shaped leaves and highly patterned purple/brown flowers with white markings. It thrives in the dappled shade of the orchard.
Interesting Facts
The plant gets its common name from the fact that it used to be used, especially by soldiers, to form a poultice (a bandage) to treat wounds. It has antiseptic and astringent properties. The name Woundwort actually translates to “wound herb”.
Importance to Wildlife
It is particularly adored by long-tongued bees, such as the garden bumblebee, and serves as a vital food plant for the caterpillars of several moth species.
Advice
The stem is square and hairy, The leaves are in pairs and opposite each other. There is an unpleasant smell, a little like burning rubber, when the leaves are crushed (which is actually a defence mechanism to stop it being eaten by mammals).
The leaves are similar to stinging nettles so make sure you can see the flowers, and you know it’s a Hedge Woundwort, before touching it.