Mountain Arnica is a perennial herb native to European mountain meadows, known for its bright orange-yellow daisy-like flowers. It plays a crucial role in high-altitude ecosystems, supporting pollinators such as bees and butterflies. In agroecology, it can be part of a medicinal plant guild, providing ecological benefits like erosion control on slopes due to its rhizomatous root system. Historically, it has been used in traditional European herbal medicine for its potent anti-inflammatory properties.
Growing Details
Mountain Arnica thrives in acidic, well-drained soils with a pH of 4.5-6.5, typical of high-altitude meadows. Cold stratification of seeds is necessary for germination. Mulching with pine needles can help maintain soil acidity and moisture. Companion plants include other alpine species like gentians and alpine asters. Avoid overwatering and ensure good drainage to prevent root rot. Harvest flowers in late summer when fully open, and dry them quickly in a well-ventilated area to preserve their me
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Arnica montana</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location:
applicable geo region: European mountain regions
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of Jun for 2 days
Harvest:
beginning
of August for 1 days
Seed Start:
?
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
of April
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(0/5)
edible uses: Not edible - toxic if consumed
Medicinal Rating:
(5/5)
medicinal uses: The flowers are used externally for their anti-inflammatory properties, aiding in the healing of bruises, sprains, and muscle soreness. It is a key ingredient in homeopathic remedies and should never be used internally due to its toxicity.
health concerns: EXTERNAL USE ONLY. Toxic if ingested. Can cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals. Regulated/protected species in many areas.
other uses:
Scientific Literature
Loading scientific articles about <strong>Arnica montana</strong>...
Botanical data
specie: Arnica montana
common names: Mountain Arnica, European Arnica, Wolf's Bane
family: Asteraceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Arnica
Growing Conditions
area needed: 0.3 m
spacing: 0.3 m
growing difficulty:
Deciduous / Evergreen: Deciduous
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 15ยฐC / 10ยฐC / 20ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 15ยฐC / -5ยฐC / 20ยฐC
water demands: High
humidity: Medium
light demands:
root type: Shallow
frost tender:
hardness:โโโโโโโโโโ(6/10)
first harvest: 2 years
life span: 5 years
succession:
growth rate: Fast
max height: 0.6 m
max width: 0.3 m
soil preference:
pH preference:
flower type:
growth details: Mountain Arnica thrives in acidic, well-drained soils with a pH of 4.5-6.5, typical of high-altitude meadows. Cold stratification of seeds is necessary for germination. Mulching with pine needles can help maintain soil acidity and moisture. Companion plants include other alpine species like gentians and alpine asters. Avoid overwatering and ensure good drainage to prevent root rot. Harvest flowers in late summer when fully open, and dry them quickly in a well-ventilated area to preserve their me
Potential Disturbances: Mountain Arnica is relatively pest-resistant but can be affected by aphids and slugs. Encourage natural predators like ladybugs and ground beetles. Planting garlic or chives nearby can help deter slugs. Use neem oil as an organic spray if necessary.
Growth Timeline
Recipes Using This Plant
Animals Interacting With This Plant
Permanent Link
Scan this QR code for a permanent link to this plant:
Loading comments...