Northern Horse Balm, Richweed, Stoneroot (Collinsonia canadensis L.)

Lamiaceae (Mint Family)

USDA Native Status: Native to U.S.

Photographic Location: Rock Island State Park in TN.

A coarse perennial, up to 5 ft. tall, with large, oval, toothed leaves to the top of the stalk, and long, branched, terminal spikes of small, yellow flowers which stand above the leaves. The lower lip of each flower is fringed and extends beyond the upper lip. These flowers have a distinct lemony odor.

This tall wildflower is typical of moist woodlands. Its foliage as well as its flowers have a citronella-like odor. Tea can be brewed from the leaves, and the rhizome was formerly used as a diuretic, tonic, and astringent.