Description of Pennyroyal Plants
"Pennroyal" is part of the common names of many plants, including---according to Purdue Horticulture---European pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium) and American pennyroyal (Hedeoma pulegioides). Both plants are commonly grown for the essential oil that may be distilled from their foliage. Does this Spark an idea?
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Appearance
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European pennyroyal is a spreading perennial herb that produces oval leaves and lilac-colored flowers. American pennyroyal is an annual that boasts small, elliptical leaves topped with blueish-purple flowers. Both plants are low-growing, rarely rising above a foot.
Location
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European pennyroyal is found in fertile, moist soils in the low-coastal regions near the Mediterranean sea. The plant thrives in humid climates. American pennyroyal grows naturally in dry, sandy soils in the eastern United States.
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Uses
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Pennyroyal plants are valued for the essential oil they produce and for its medicinal uses. The plant has been used to treat headaches and colds. Dried or fresh pennyroyal leaves may be used as a culinary seasoning.
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