Butter-and-eggs

There are about 100 species of annuals and perennials in this genus, which is found in Europe and other northern temperate regions. Linaria vulgaris, found in grassland and hedgerows, is an easily grown, late-blooming plant. A peloric (monstrous) form occurs occasionally, which has five spurs instead of the normal one; the flowers then appear regular in shape, rather than having the usual irregular form. Linaria vulgaris, once highly regarded as a diuretic for edema, has a long history of medicinal use but is seldom used today. Linaria is from the Greek linon, "flax", referring to the flax-like leaves of the plant.

Slender, upright perennial with linear leaves, 6cm (2½in) long. Yellow, snapdragon-like flowers, marked orange at the mouth, with a 1cm (½in) long spur, are borne from summer to autumn.

Common Name:	Butter-and-eggs
Other Names:	Toadflax
Botanical Name:	Linaria vulgaris
Genus:	Linaria
Family:	Scrophulariaceae
Native Location:	Europe (except extreme N and Mediterranean)
Cultivation:	Well-drained, neutral to alkaline soil in sun or partial shade. Invasive.
Propagation:	By seed sown in spring; by division in spring. Self-sows freely.
Harvest:	Plants are cut when flowering and dried for use in infusions.
Height:	15-90cm (6-36in)
Width:	30-45cm (12-18in)
Hardiness:	Z6-9
Parts Used:	Whole Plant
Properties:	A bitter, acrid, astringent herb that cleanses toxins from the tissues, and is diuretic and laxative. It acts mainly on the liver.
Medicinal Uses:	Internally for skin diseases, enteritis, hepatitis, gall bladder complaints, and edema. Not given to pregnant women. Externally for hemorrhoids, skin eruptions, sores, and malignant ulcers.
Warning:	For use by qualified practioners only; dosage is critical.
Bibliography:	Encyclopedia of Herbs by Deni Brown Copyright © 1995, 2001 Dorling Kindersley Limited Pp 262-263