Brookweed
Samolus valerandi
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Pl. 039B — Samolus valerandi
Samolus valerandiSamolus valerandiSamolus valerandiSamolus valerandiSamolus valerandiSamolus valerandiSamolus valerandiSamolus valerandiSamolus valerandiSamolus valerandiSamolus valerandiSamolus valerandiSamolus valerandiSamolus valerandi
IOverview
Overview
Brookweed (Samolus valerandi) is a perennial herb that thrives in moist to wet conditions with light to heavy soils, making it adaptable to various habitats across its native range in Europe, Asia, and Africa. Known for its edible leaves, this plant is commonly found from Afghanistan to Zimbabwe, including regions like Albania, Algeria, and Austria. Its preference for light (sandy), medium, or clay soil and a pH of 7–7.5 makes it suitable for garden cultivation. One distinctive feature of brookweed is its ability to grow in diverse environments, contributing to its widespread presence across its native range.
Quick answers
What is Brookweed?
Brookweed (Samolus valerandi) is a perennial herb that thrives in moist to wet conditions with light to heavy soils, making it adaptable to various habitats across its native range in Europe, Asia, and Africa.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Brookweed thrives in moist to wet conditions and prefers light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils with a pH of 7-7.5. It is hardy in temperate regions with zones 5-9 and can grow up to 0.3 meters tall as a perennial forb/herb. Ensure the plant receives adequate moisture while avoiding overly dry conditions. The soil should be well-draining but retain some moisture, making it ideal for garden beds or containers where you can control water levels. Propagate through seeds or division in spring or early fall. Harvest edible leaves throughout the growing season.
Light
8/10
Water
Moist, Wet, Water
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
5-9
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.3 m tall
Soil pH
7–7.5
For first-time growers
How to grow Brookweed for the first time
8steps
Start with easy-to-grow Brookweed for a simple gardening experience.
- 1
What you'll need
Brookweed seeds or young plants, potting soil, containers or garden space.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or in fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with a pH between 7-7.5, ensuring containers are at least 10 inches deep.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds in the garden or start them indoors 4 weeks before planting outside. Transplant young plants if needed.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged, and provide partial shade until established.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, and fertilize sparingly with a balanced fertilizer. Mulch to retain moisture.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune back after flowering to encourage new growth and prevent self-seeding.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, neglecting to mulch, not providing enough light, and over-fertilizing.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: The leaves of Brookweed are edible and can be eaten raw or cooked. They are commonly prepared in salads for their fresh flavor or steamed as a side dish. Skip
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 30 native
Europe12 regions
native (12)FinlandFranceGermanyGreeceHungaryIrelandItalyNetherlandsPortugalRussiaUkraineUnited Kingdom
Asia3 regions
native (3)IranIraqOman
Africa10 regions
native (10)EgyptEritreaEthiopiaKenyaLibyaMauritaniaMoroccoMozambiqueNamibiaNigeria
Broader regions
native:Kirgizstan, Kriti, KwaZulu-Natal, Lebanon-Syria, Northern Provinces
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
About this entry
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 039bfa74-9bb5-4226-a69a-c80d31f5ecf9
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