Hardy perennial with fleshy rosettes producing pink star-shaped flowers on tall stems. Also known as Sengreen, Foose, Jupiter's Eye, Thor's Beard, Healing Blade, Gardenwort and Ear Plant. Spreads well to form a dense mat, so good for ground cover. Stems reach up to 12 ins (30 cm) high when in flower. Name comes from the Anglo-Saxon "leac", meaning a plant. Name also derives from the Latin "semper", meaning always, and "vivus", meaning alive - referring to its drought tolerance. "Tectorum" refers to it being grown on roofs. In fact Houseleeks are still planted on pigsty roofs in parts of the Forest of Dean. On Irish roofs, Houseleeks were planted in a criss-cross pattern for extra protection.

Ancient Romans grew Houseleeks in containers and the Emperor Charlemagne, first Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire, decreed that everyone should grow Houseleeks on their roofs to ward off lightning, fire, war and pestilence. In most European countries, the plant is dedicated to Jupiter or Thor.

Houseleek is diuretic, cooling, soothing and healing. It is taken internally for shingles, skin problems and piles. Externally for stings, warts, burns, sunburn, itching and corns. Apply leaf sap on a sting to remove pain. It used to be believed, though, that to pick the flowers led to death. Soak fresh leaves in a bath to heal and nourish skin. Infusion as a tea for septic throats, bronchitis, mouth ulcers and sores. Farmers would use the plant on animals for bruises, eye problems and ulcers.

Plant thrives in stony soil and drought conditions.

*This sheet is provided for information only and is in no way a prescription for use. Please seek the advice of a qualified herbalist before using*

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