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Pellitory Of The Wall

Parietaria judaica
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Parietaria judaica (Pellitory Of The Wall) — botanical photograph
Pl. B2D8 — Parietaria judaica
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Overview

Parietaria judaica, commonly known as Pellitory of the Wall, is a perennial herb that thrives across various regions including Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, and parts of Europe and Asia. This adaptable plant grows best in light to heavy soil with a pH between 7.5 and 8, making it suitable for drier conditions. Reaching heights of about 0.6 meters, Pellitory of the Wall is notable for its edible leaves and shoots, which can be prepared fresh in salads or cooked as a green vegetable. Native to Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, and the Azores, among other locations, this plant is recognized by its ability to grow on walls, hence its name. It has been introduced into various regions such as Argentina Northeast, Austria, California, and Chile Central, showcasing its adaptability. Pellitory of the Wall prefers light to partial shade and can thrive in dry to moist conditions. While primarily used for culinary purposes, this plant is not known for medicinal benefits. Its cultivation is relatively simple, with propagation through seeds or division best done in spring. For those interested in incorporating it into their gardens, Pellitory of the Wall offers a unique addition due to its distinctive growth habit and edible parts.

Quick answers

What is Pellitory Of The Wall?

Parietaria judaica, commonly known as Pellitory of the Wall, is a perennial herb that thrives across various regions including Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, and parts of Europe and Asia. This adaptable plant grows best in light to heavy soil with a pH between 7.

Growingconditions · propagation · uses
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Cultivation

Pellitory of the Wall thrives in light to medium soil that can be either sandy or clayey, with a preference for a slightly alkaline pH between 7.5 and 8. The plant is hardy in temperate regions but can be found growing wild across various climates. It prefers dry to moist conditions and requires full sun to partial shade. For cultivation, propagate via seeds or division in spring. Harvest the leaves and shoots for edible use.
Light
5/10
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.6 m tall
Soil pH
7.5–8
For first-time growers

How to grow Pellitory Of The Wall for the first time

8steps

Start with basic care for Pellitory Of The Wall, focusing on simple soil preparation and regular watering.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    Seeds or young plants, a small trowel, and a container or garden bed.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant in spring after the last frost or in early fall for best results.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Ensure soil is well-draining with a pH between 7.5-8, and prepare containers with light, medium, or heavy soil.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Direct sow seeds in the garden or start them indoors and transplant when they have two sets of true leaves.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, providing partial shade if necessary.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Water regularly to maintain moisture levels, especially during dry spells. Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune back after flowering to encourage new growth and prevent the plant from becoming too leggy.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil, and not providing enough light are common issues beginners should avoid.

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Edible & utility

Edible parts:LeavesShoots
Edible uses: The leaves and shoots of Pellitory of the Wall (Parietaria judaica) are edible. Typically, they are prepared fresh in salads or cooked as a green vegetable. The plant thrives in well-drained soil with a pH between 7.5 and 8. Skip
Other uses:Cleanser
Contextrange · companions · related
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Distribution

49 native · 26 introduced
Distribution across4 continents· 49 native· 26 introduced
Europe23 regions
native (17)AlbaniaBelgiumBulgariaCyprusFranceGermanyGreeceIrelandItalyNetherlandsPortugalRomaniaRussiaSpainSwitzerlandUkraineUnited Kingdom
introduced (6)AustriaDenmarkFinlandHungaryNorwaySweden
Asia11 regions
native (10)AfghanistanIranIraqKazakhstanNepalPakistanPalestineTurkeyTurkmenistanUzbekistan
introduced (1)Yemen
Americas3 regions
introduced (3)JamaicaPeruUruguay
Africa6 regions
native (6)AlgeriaCabo VerdeEgyptLibyaMoroccoTunisia
Broader regions
native:East Aegean Is., Kirgizstan, Kriti, Lebanon-Syria, Tadzhikistan, Transcaucasus, Turkey-in-Europe, West Himalaya, Yugoslavia
introduced:Argentina Northeast, California, Chile Central, Czechoslovakia, Florida, Louisiana, Michigan, New Jersey, New South Wales, New York, Pennsylvania, South Australia, Tasmania, Texas, Victoria, Western Australia
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Specimen gallery

1 image
Parietaria judaica (Pellitory Of The Wall) — botanical photograph
Pellitory Of The Wall (Parietaria judaica)
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Explore further

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