Scrophularia nodosa (Figwort) 9 cm Pot

Growth habit & appearance: Scrophularia nodosa, commonly known as common figwort, is a statuesque native Irish perennial with square, reddish-green stems that can reach around 150 cm. Opposite, toothed leaves clothe the stems, while in summer the plant carries many small, greenish-brown, hooded flowers held in loose clusters that hum with insect activity. As it matures it forms a bold clump with a deep, fibrous root system that anchors well in heavier, moist soils and gives real structure in a wilder corner of the garden.

Growing conditions: In Ireland, figwort thrives in full sun to part shade, particularly in damp meadows, hedgerows and light woodland edges. It prefers moisture-retentive, reasonably fertile soils and will tolerate heavier clays so long as they do not become waterlogged. This is a fully hardy perennial for the Irish climate, dying back in winter and re-emerging strongly in spring. Our plants are grown from local seed in our nursery in Co. Clare, and, once established, are well suited to wildlife gardens, damp borders and naturalistic plantings across Ireland.

Traditional & herbal uses: Traditionally, Scrophularia nodosa has been used in Western herbal medicine as a lymphatic and alterative herb, especially where swollen lymph glands and chronic skin eruptions such as eczema, acne and psoriasis were present. Aerial parts were often prepared as decoctions, washes or poultices for congested tissues, haemorrhoids and slow-healing wounds, and it has also been described as mildly bitter and gently diaphoretic. The plant contains iridoid glycosides and saponins and should be treated as a potent medicinal herb rather than a culinary one.

Maintenance & harvesting: Plant figwort out into its final position and keep well watered during the first season until roots have established. It appreciates a mulch of leaf mould or garden compost in autumn to mimic its natural woodland habitat and to help maintain soil moisture. Harvest the upper aerial parts as the flower spikes come into full bloom, cutting stems just above a leaf joint and leaving plenty of flowers for pollinators and seed for wildlife. Clumps can be divided in early spring if you wish to propagate more plants or prevent overcrowding, and tall stems may be staked in exposed gardens. Figwort can self-seed gently; unwanted seedlings are easily pulled when young.