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Herbaceous Perennial

Arnica montana

mountain tobacco

A clump-forming perennial producing a rosette of broadly oval leaves up to 15cm long. In summer it produces deep yellow or orange-yellow flowers 5-8cm across

Other common names
arnica
medicinal leopard's bane
see moremountain alkanet
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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Yellow Green
Autumn Green
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

West–facing or South–facing or East–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H6
Botanical details
Family
Asteraceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy
Potentially harmful
Harmful if eaten, skin allergen. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
Genus

Arnica are rhizomatous perennials with simple, opposite leaves and daisy-like yellow flowers, solitary or in loose sprays, in summer

Name status

Correct

Plant range
C & N Europe

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in moist but well-drained, humus-rich soil in a sunny position

Propagation

Propagate by seed sown in a cold frame in autumn, or by division in spring

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

Cut down stems once flowering is finished

Pests

May be susceptible to caterpillars and slugs

Diseases

Generally disease-free

Get involved

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