Shepherds Purse - Capsella Bursa-Pastoris - Edible & Medicinal
Quantity: 100 Seeds
Shepherds Purse, aka Capsella Bursa-Pastori, is a member of the Mustard family, Brassicaceae. It can be found growing all over the world, and grows as an annual. The whole plant can be used as both food and medicine. The flowers and leaves have a light mustard flavour that lends itself well to salad and fish dishes. The seeds can be ground and added to salad dressings as it adds flavour as well as emulsifies oils. Also, the root can also be used as a ginger substitute. The whole plant is quite nutritious and versatile.
Medicinally, the herb has been used to stop external and internal bleeding. It is unclear if this benefit is attributed to the plant, or the white fungus that develops on the leaves and flowers come autumn, so it is recommended to harvest for medicinal purposes once this fungus has developed. The plant does not retain it's medicinal qualities for more than a year, so making it into a salve or tincture soon after drying is recommended.
This plant thrives in many environments, but prefers to have good sunshine and a decent amount of moisture in the soil. It doesn't grow well in the shade, so partial to full sun is recommended for the healthiest plants. The flowers are a great source of nectar so they attract pollinators. Because of this, planting Shepherds Purse anywhere near the garden will increase pollination of crops and other plants in the area.
All seeds are organic and open pollinated.
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Growing Instructions
Shepherds Purse seeds may be planted directly in the ground in early spring, or started in pots 4-6 weeks before last frost. Sow the seeds on the soil surface. once established, the plants don’t require very much attention other than a good mulching and a weekly watering. These plants are quite vigorous, so just a small patch of them can provide a full winter supply of tea. Shepherds purse is resistant to pests, drought, and flood; It’s a very robust plant.