Description
Elecampane, Inula helenium, ia also known as Horsetail, Elf Dock, Pushkaramula, Elecampane is a rich source of inulin and alonton. Traditional use in Europe of the root as a cooked vegetable and as a flavouring in liqueurs. The octopus like roots are bitter and antiseptic and utilised as a cough and lung remedy. Elecampane is also the source of a smoothing massage oil. Cultivation: Native of Europe. Prefers moist, well drained soils in a protected, sunny position, may be grown in partial shade. Handsome, giant yellow flowers appearing in summer. Frost resistant but drought tender. Perennial, deciduous plant growing to 1.2m x 0.6 m.