Black horehound (Ballota nigra)

Black horehound

Also known as: Stinking horehound

Black horehound, or Ballota nigra, is a perennial herb with a musty or moldy fragrance. The genus name, "ballota," is related to the Greek word meaning “to reject,” and is related to the plant’s offensive odor.

Scientific classification

Species

Black horehound (Ballota nigra)

Mints plantains olives and allies

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Late spring, Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

30 cm to 1 m

Plant Height

60 cm to 90 cm

Spread

Green, Purple

Stem Color

Semi-evergreen

Leaf type

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Black horehound

Distribution of Black horehound

Distribution Map

Black horehound is native to a broad range of temperate regions, primarily across Europe, parts of the Middle East, and northern Africa. It has been introduced to portions of other continents, manifesting as naturalized populations notably in cooler climates. Black horehound's extended distribution encompasses parts of the Northern Hemisphere but is more restricted when it comes to Southern Hemisphere locales.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

Discover plant distribution and habitat

Gain insights into where plants thrive and how they adapt, helping you identify, cultivate, and protect them with essential information on habitats, distribution maps, and climate trends.

Download the App for Free

Habitat

Waste ground, hedgerows, woods, shady places

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Black horehound

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Black horehound, native to Mediterranean rocky soils, exhibits moderate drought tolerance and requires weekly watering when cultivated. It prefers well-draining soil to avoid overwatering issues. Benefiting from rainwater in its growing season, black horehound enhances its aromatic foliage effectively.

Fertilize: For black horehound, use balanced nutrition fertilizers bimonthly in the growing season, reducing in winter. Follow manufacturer recommendations to prevent overfertilization. Benefits include enhanced growth and vitality. Apply post-fertilization watering for safety and better nutrient absorption, while seasonal adjustments cater to the plant's life cycle.

Pruning: Black horehound features hairy stems and a strong aroma. Annual pruning in early to late spring is essential for healthy growth, focusing on dead or damaged stems and thinning foliage for airflow. Use sanitized tools to prevent disease and wear gloves to avoid skin irritation.

Propagation: Black horehound propagation involves division of the root system, ensuring each section has enough roots. Plant divisions in well-draining soil, with indirect sunlight until established. Regular watering and soil monitoring are essential for the successful growth of new black horehound specimens.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free

Images of Black horehound

Distribution of Black horehound

Care Guide for Black horehound

PEOPLE ALSO ASK