Sheep’s-bit
Plant Whisper
The mountain sandwort has other names:
Mountain sandwort, mountain sandwort, or sheep scabious. It belongs to the bellflower family, although from a distance it resembles the flowers of the common scabious. It can be found on sparse, sandy, nutrient-poor grasslands, in dry pine forests, and on fallow land. It tolerates saline soil, which is why it can also be found on sunny dunes, sandy beaches, and dikes. Near the sea, it can be found up to an altitude of 1200 meters.
This delicate plant, with its mostly blue flowers that resemble those of the daisy family, roots up to 1 meter deep. The flower color can vary, ranging from light blue to pink and, rarely, white.
Botanical Facts
dry
Hardy down to -23°C
Europe, Northwest Africa
June-October
Sun to partial shade
Low-lime sands and rocks, dry, lean and warm summer locations with plenty of sand and as little lime and humus as possible
Healing Properties
There appears to be no historical or current medical use for it. Homeopathic globules are available commercially.
Features
20 - 60 cm
🌿 (Herb)
The plant, with its milky sap inside the stems, is visited by numerous insect species, including 41 wild bee species alone. It is visited by over 100 insect species.
Generally considered mildly to non-toxic, it is often recommended as a safe wild perennial for the garden. However, some sources indicate that ingestion in humans can cause mild symptoms such as nausea. Caution is advised with animals such as cats.
Endangerment Level
V - Near Threatened
All information about herbs has been carefully compiled but does not claim to be complete. None of the information provided constitutes medical advice.
GOLDEN RULE for EVERYTHING: Eat only what you know! The rule applies: a handful of wild plants per person and day may be collected on public land. Use only washed plant parts that you can identify clearly – when in doubt, please refrain from using them.
TIP: One advantage of buying over-the-counter medicines from a pharmacy or specialist retailer is the expert advice on your symptoms.
