Eggarton Cottages, Eggarton Lane, Godmersham, Kent, CT4 7DY
Tel/Fax: 01227 730242
Hardy biennial. Also known as White Satin, Satin Flower, Money Plant, Silver Plate and Two Pennies in a Purse. Purple flowers from April to June leave behind large, round, papery seed cases which are often used in floral arrangements, and also give the garden added interest. Plant was originally cultivated in 1570 in Sweden. During Tudor times, the roots were boiled and eaten with meat or grated into salads � thought to be very nutritious.
Grows 2 � 3 ft high (60 � 90 cm). Very popular Victorian plant, the Victorians growing it in their drawing rooms. Victorian women would paint the translucent seed pods to use as winter decorations. Old tradition associated with the plant that it thrives where the gardener is honest.
For sorcerors, the plant aided shape-changing, flying, finding lost property, unlocking secrets and bringing the dead back to life. Used also to dress wounds and treat epilepsy. Honesty used to be used in witches� brews.
Good plant for attracting butterflies and Orange Tip butterfly caterpillars. Birds like the seeds.
Plant out in autumn in any soil. Good self-seeder. Prefers partial shade.
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