🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
Restharrow species are sometimes used as a ground cover, although its spreading habit can be aggressive. The roots have traditional medicinal uses, as a diuretic and for other ailments. Considered useful in soil stabilization.
Permapeople description
A low-growing, spreading perennial plant with pink pea-like flowers. Often found in coastal grasslands and meadows.
Botanical description
Ononis repens is a perennial herbaceous plant of the legume family (Fabaceae). It typically grows to a height of 4-20 inches (10-50 cm). It has a creeping or prostrate habit with spreading stems. The leaves are trifoliate, with serrated margins. The flowers are pink, pea-like, and borne in leaf axils. The fruit is a small pod containing several seeds. It thrives in well-drained soils and tolerates poor conditions. Its extensive root system can make it difficult to eradicate.
Companion planting
Due to its aggressive spreading nature, it may not be a good companion plant for more delicate species. Its nitrogen-fixing capabilities could benefit other plants, but careful management is needed to prevent it from becoming invasive.
Propagation methods
Propagation can be achieved through seed sowing, root cuttings, or division of established plants.
History and traditions
Historically, restharrow has been used in traditional medicine as a diuretic and for treating kidney and bladder ailments. The root has been used in folk remedies for a variety of conditions, although scientific evidence supporting these uses is limited.
Usage calendar
Flowering typically occurs from May to September. Seed collection is usually in late summer or early fall. Planting of seeds or cuttings is best done in spring or autumn. Pruning or controlling spread is best done after flowering.