Leonurus japonica (Chinese Motherwort) 9 cm Pot

Growth habit & appearance: An upright and strongly architectural perennial bearing tiered whorls of soft pink-mauve flowers along square stems. The foliage is delicately lobed and finely textured, giving the plant a light, open habit that moves easily in the wind. When mature, it forms a graceful vertical clump that adds structure and height in mixed herb beds.

Growing conditions: Well suited to Irish conditions when planted in full sun and reasonably free-draining soil. Although native to East Asia, it performs reliably outdoors in Ireland as a hardy perennial. Plants grown in our nursery in Co. Clare from seed adapt well once planted out. It will tolerate damp winters, but good drainage ensures strong overwintering. Allow adequate space as it can reach close to 1 m in height.

Traditional & herbal uses: Now widely used in contemporary herbal practice for cardiovascular regulation—particularly mild hypertension—alongside support for menstrual regularity and stress-related palpitations. Its calming but not sedating profile makes it useful in formulas aimed at circulatory tension, emotional agitation, and menstrual stagnation.

Maintenance & harvesting: Plant out once risk of frost has passed and allow it to settle through its first season. Harvest aerial parts when the flowers are fully open, ideally on a dry morning. Deadheading encourages a longer flowering period, while a full cut-back in late autumn keeps the clump tidy for winter. Plants may self-seed lightly; remove unwanted seedlings if you prefer a controlled planting.