Pellitory-of-the-Wall

There are about 20 species of annuals and perennials in this almost cosmopolitan genus, which is especially common in temperate regions. Parietaria judaica is seldom cultivated but makes a picturesque sight on old roofs and walls. It begins to grow early in the year and has fresh, green foliage when most other deciduous plants are still bare. Parietaria judaica was once known as P. officinalis, indicating that it was formerly widely used medicinally. It is still a respected, non-irritating treatment of chronic urinary complaints. Parietaria is from the Latin parietarius, "belonging to walls".

Softly hairy perennial with red-green, spreading stems and ovate to lanceolate leaves, to 7cm (3in) long. Tiny green flowers are borne in forked clusters in summer.


Common Name:
Pellitory-of-the-Wall
Botanical Name:
Parietaria judaica syn. P. diffusa
Genus:
Parietaria
Family:
Urticaceae
Native Location:
From W and C Europe to N Africa.
Cultivation:
Well-drained to dry, alkaline soil in sun or partial shade. Subject to statuatory control as a weed in parts of Australia.
Propagation:
By seed sown in autumn or spring.
Harvest:
Plants are cut when flowering and used mainly fresh or infusions, decoctions, compresses, liquid extracts, and tinctures. Fresh extracts are more effective. Decoctions may be frozen for later use.
Height:
40cm (16in)
Width:
40cm (16in)
Hardiness:
Z5-8
Parts Used:
Whole Plant
Properties:
An acrid, soothing, cooling herb that has diuretic, antilithic, and anti-inflammatory effects.
Medicinal Uses:
Internally for cystitis, pyelitis, urinary stones, and edema associated with kidney complaints. Combines well with Agathosma crenulata (See, Oval-Leaf Buchu), Aphanes arvensis (See, Parsley Piert), Apium graveolens (See, Wild Celery), Arctostaphylos uva-ursi (See, Bearberry), Juniperus communis (See, Common Juniper), and Petroselinium crispum (See, Parsley) to control infections; and with Elymus repens (See, Quack Grass) and Zea mays (See, Corn) to relieve pain and inflammation. Not given to patients with hay fever or other allergic conditions.
Bibliography:
Encyclopedia of Herbs by Deni Brown Copyright © 1995, 2001 Dorling Kindersley Limited Pg 302