Arnica montana, also known as “mountain tobacco” or “Wolf’s Bane” is a herbaceous flowering plant. It is grown for its bright yellow flowers and medicinal purposes, used in skin ailments.
USDA Zones: 5 to 9
Propagation Method: Seeds
Difficulty: Easy
Soil Type: Slightly acidic to neutral
Bloom Color: Yellow
Growing Habit
It grows up to 30 to 60 cm. tall and produces daisy like yellow flowers in summer, often grown as perennial, you can also grow it as annual. Arnica montana is native to mountainous regions of Central Europe and grown across the US and Canada.
How to Grow Arnica Montana
Arnica montana is hardy perennial in temperate climates, it grows easily from seed, but due to slow germination if you live in a climate with short summer it is better for you to find a potted plants or seedlings from a nursery.
Growing Arnica
Grow arnica montana in the USDA zones 5 to 9. This plant survives low winter temperatures.
Sow fresh arnica seeds outdoor in summer or adjust the time according to the required germination temperature, which is around 55 F (13 C) in the low nitrogen soil, at least an inch apart. Rake the soil lightly to make sure that the seeds make good contact with the soil, water thoroughly after sowing. The seeds will germinate within a month. Thin out the unhealthy seedlings as they grow, to reach a final gap of about 10-12 inches between plants.
Requirements and Care
Sun
Arnica montana, grows well in full sun, but can enjoy the shade in the afternoon, especially in warmer climates.
Soil
Prepare suitable soil for growing Arnica montana. The basic requirement for this plant is moist soil with good drainage. The plant tolerate poor soil, but grows best in an equal mixture of clay, peat and sand. It prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil, and soil pH should be around 5.5 to 7.3.
Watering
Water your Arnica plant regularly so the soil will stay moist, ensure good drainage.
Fertilizing
This plant does not require supplemental fertilization.
Harvest
Flowers blooms in summer, you can make beautiful cut flowers of them. If you want to use them for medicinal purposes, collect the flowers as soon as they bloom in, air dry them and keep in air tight jar .
Caveat: Arnica is ruled unsafe for internal use and can be harmful if ingested.
Also Read: Flowers that are toxic
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