Alecost

Page last edited 4,855 days ago
From WikiGardener
Jump to navigation Jump to search
Alecost
Error creating thumbnail: Unable to save thumbnail to destination
Scientific Classification
Kingdom: Plantae
(Unranked): Angiosperms
(Unranked): Eudicots
(Unranked): Asterids
Order: Asterales
Family: Asteraceae
Genus: Tanacetum
Species: Tanacetum balsamita
Synonyms

Alecost
Balsam herb
Bible leaf
Costmary
Mint geranium

Chrysanthemum balsamita
Plant Data
Mature height: 60-105cm (24-42in)
Growing plant spacing: 60cm (24in)
References: [1]

Alecost is a perennial temperate herb, which has been grown for many centuries for its pleasant, slightly medicinal or balsamic smell. The leaves should only be used in small amounts as they have a very sharp 'tang'. Add finely chopped to carrot soup, salads, game, poultry stuffing and in fruit cakes. It can be added with melted butter to peas and new potatoes.[1]

Growing[edit | edit source]

Location[edit | edit source]

Choose a position in full sun. Small plants can be grown indoors.[1]

Soil[edit | edit source]

Alecost will grow best in rich, fairly dry and well drained soil.[1]

Planting[edit | edit source]

Divide roots in spring or autumn. Seed will not germinate in cool climates.[1]

Transplanting[edit | edit source]

Transplant seedlings 60cm (24in) apart.

Harvesting[edit | edit source]

Pick leaves at any time, although they have the most aroma as the flowers open.[1]

Preserving[edit | edit source]

Leaves can be dried without noticeable loss of flavour[1]

References[edit | edit source]

Template:Reflist

This page uses Creative Commons Licensed content from Wikipedia (view authors).
  1. a b c d e f g Bremness, L. (1988). The Complete Book of Herbs. Dorling Kindersley Ltd, London. p.66.