Inula britannica Seeds | British Yellowhead
LATIN NAME: Inula britannica
COMMON NAME: British Yellowhead, Meadow Fleabane
Plant Profile
Among the ornamental and useful plants raised from seed, British Yellowhead (Inula britannica) stands out as an upright, herb in the daisy family, native to meadows, grasslands and damp places across Europe and Asia, while it has been cultivated in gardens for its flowers. During flowering it gives bees and other insects a dependable food source. In combination, these characteristics make a persuasive case for growing it.
Science & Biotechnology
Research touching on Inula britannica ranges from the botany of the daisy family to practical horticulture, including seed handling, propagation and the selection of superior forms. The Inula britannica has a real and distinguished place in research. With present-day seed handling, raising this species well within the reach of any careful grower.
Uses & Benefits
British Yellowhead works well in borders, containers and dedicated beds. The British yellowhead is an upright, herbaceous perennial of meadows and grasslands, bearing bright-yellow, daisy-like flowers with narrow rays in the summer. Its flowers are a magnet for bees and butterflies, and its upright growth gives a fine presence in meadow and wild garden, while its tolerance of damp soil makes it a valuable plant for meadow and pond edge. To raise the British yellowhead, sow seeds on surface of pots of moist, open soil in a sunny, bright place, keep them gently watered, and grow little plants on in the sun. A plant that has settled in will get along with only routine care.
Elecampane root is a grand old European expectorant, rich in inulin and the sesquiterpene alantolactone, used for centuries in cough syrups; Chinese Xuan Fu Hua flowers serve parallel roles for phlegm.
Growing from Seed
Seed is the natural starting point for British Yellowhead, and the process is uncomplicated. Sow on the surface of a gritty, well-drained mix, cover lightly with fine compost, and maintain gentle, even moisture in a sunny position. Once the seedlings have made true leaves, pot them on individually and plant out when they are sturdy and conditions are right.
Our Take
The traditional uses covered above are what first made this species worth cultivating. British Yellowhead, Meadow Fleabane is the kind of plant that rewards a permanent spot. Minor errors in timing or watering rarely cost the grower the crop.
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