03.
Cultivation & Harvesting
considerations for growing and harvesting gravel root
climate
Gravel root grows mostly is moist woodland or swampy areas in sun or part shade.
soil
Grows in ordinary garden soil that is well-drained but moisture retentive.
growing
Sow seed in spring, just barely cover the seed. Transplant into individual
pots when large enough and plant into the garden in summer. This plant can
also be divided in spring or fall; divisions can be planted directly into
the garden beds.
Although gravel root isn’t generally considered an ornamental garden plant, it
does boast showy clumps of bright, pink florets on tall stems that sport whorls
of elongated leaves. In spite of its striking appearance, the fact that the
plant attracts rather than deters many kinds of insects may also explain why
gardening enthusiasts prefer to admire it in its natural habitat.
harvesting
The leaves and flowering stems of gravel root are harvested in the summer before the buds
open and are dried for later use. The roots are harvested in the autumn, cut
into pieces and dried for later use.
preserving
Store dried gravel root pieces in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.