How Long Does It Take for Siberian Motherwort to Grow?

Characteristics

• Although it is somewhat ordinary in appearance, the bushy stems and neat, serrated leaves of Siberian motherwort plant are a welcome addition to cottage gardens, herb gardens and informal perennial beds. The upright stems reach between 4 and 5 feet in height, and 2 feet in width, making them an excellent choice for filling in awkward spaces. In addition to adding greenery to the garden, Siberian motherwort also produces an abundance of delicate flowers that draw beneficial insects, such as bees and butterflies, all summer long.

Cultivation

• Sow Siberian motherwort seeds in the early summer, once the daytime temperatures have reached an average of 70 degrees Fahrenheit or greater. Choose a sunny site and scatter the seeds evenly over a bed of moist, freshly turned soil. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil, then add water. Keep the soil evenly moist for the next two weeks, allowing the seeds ample time to germinate. Once germination has occurred, water the plants as needed. Wait two weeks, then thin the plants, leaving 2 feet of space between seedlings. Leaves may be plucked from the plant at any time, or the entire plant can be harvested in the fall by cutting it off 2 inches from the ground.

Ideal Climates

• Siberian motherwort is a perennial plant, and as such, it returns to the garden each year without replanting; however, it is not cold hardy, in areas known for hard winters the roots may not survive from one season to the next. Those who live north of USDA hardiness zone 5 may have better luck growing Siberian motherwort in a container that can be moved indoors during periods of inclement weather.

Uses

• Historically, teas and topical ointments made from Siberian motherwort have been used to treat heart conditions, to soothe arthritis pain, to calm the nerves, to lower blood pressure and to alleviate menstrual distress. However, there are a number of alkaloids associated with Siberian motherwort leaves, some of which can produce unpleasant side effects, such as drowsiness or dulling of the reflexes. Remedies made from Siberian motherwort should, therefore, be used with caution.