Inula salicina Seeds | Willow-leaved Inula
LATIN NAME: Inula salicina
COMMON NAME: Willow-Leaved Inula
Plant Profile
A distinctive member of its genus, Willow-Leaved Inula (Inula salicina) is a perennial in the daisy family, native to moist meadows of the Europe and surrounding regions, while it is treasured for its fine, golden-yellow flowers. In daisy family it is golden-flowered inula of moist meadows, a plant whose narrow, willow-like leaves and bright daisy heads mark it out in summer grass. At maturity it stands about One metre. When it flowers, local bees and other insects make good use of it. Not many plants ask so little and repay so much.
Science & Biotechnology
Inula salicina sits in the daisy family, a group that keeps botanists, horticulturists and plant breeders busy with questions of classification, adaptation and ornamental potential. Willow-leaved inula roots and parts are a familiar subject in traditional plant chemistry of Europe, and constituents have been examined by researchers across the world. The practical point for growers is that this plant has been observed in gardens for so long that its behaviour holds few surprises.
Uses & Benefits
Willow-Leaved Inula works well in borders, containers and dedicated beds. In meadow garden, willow-leaved inula is golden plant of summer border. Its daisy-like flowers feed bees and butterflies, and upright, leafy growth gives border a bold, sunny presence. The old European practice keeps plant in tradition, and it grows well in moist, well-drained ground of open, sunny spot. Getting it going is easy; keeping it going is easier still.
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
Starting Willow-Leaved Inula from seed is simple and satisfying. Sow on the surface of a gritty, well-drained mix, cover lightly with fine compost, and maintain gentle, even moisture in a sunny position. Shift the seedlings into small pots as soon as they can be handled, and give them bright light until planting-out time.
Our Take
Once established, Willow-Leaved Inula largely looks after itself. Sun and good drainage cover most of its demands.
Related Reading
Gardeners who grow Willow-Leaved Inula often pair it with these related subjects: