Santolina

 Background & growing tips
Commonly used by the Amish of Pennsylvania to hang in their pantry to deter insects from their food, This Mediterranean plant is now well established in the southern parts of North America, establishing on sandy ground and enjoying the heat. 

Uses for Santolina
Used as a repellent it makes a good border plant around a vege garden with its silvery grey foliage. Grab for fresh leaves when you have an insect bite, it will help ease the pain immediately. But take a warning, some people have reaction to the juice of Santolina so make sure you have had exposure to it before you treat the sting. The dried leaves can be used sparingly to flavour stews sauces and broth. It is a strong taste so use with care until you reach the flavour you desire. The scent is not unpleasant so use in potpourri's

Preparation
Dry branches directly in the pantry or cupboards as a repellent or dry in the shade during summer or autumn to crush and use in the kitchen. Oils in Santolina are used in the perfume industry so this is not an unpleasant scent. 

Drying
At any time of year, but especially through the warmer months this plant can be cut in sizeable branches for drying. Cut when the dew has dried off the plant. Hang in the linen cupboard to repel moths or pantry to deter flies and other problem insects. It will dry slowly and release its oils and distinctive scent that are so offensive to many bugs. The plant regenerates well and takes quite happily to being trimmed.

Growing
Loves growing in dry soil and rock gardens. In NZ's climate it will thrive, but make sure the roots are not waterlogged throughout the winter, or they will rot. A mass of small but bright yellow flowers make an attractive display in summer and are a big attractant for bees. After flowering, the plant can be cut back quite hard and it will put out a mass of new growth before the winter sets in. These plants can be shaped into perfect balls, or trimmed into a square hedge, if you have more than one.

This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.