Elecampane

Did you know

• The species name helenium refers to Helen of Troy — legend holds the plant sprang from the ground where her tears fell as she was abducted.
• The root contains inulin, a prebiotic fiber whose name was derived from the plant Inula, making elecampane historically significant to nutritional science.
• It was a major medicinal plant in ancient Rome, medieval Europe, and Indigenous North American traditions, used primarily for respiratory ailments.
• Elecampane root was used as a flavoring for absinthe and vermouth, and was a common candy ingredient in Victorian England under the name 'scone.'
• The plant can reach 8 feet tall, with leaves up to 2 feet long and flower heads up to 4 inches across, making it one of the most imposing wildflowers in temperate gardens.

Color meanings

Uses

• medicinal
• culinary
• ornamental