Liver balm (Ageratum houstonianum)
Liver balm is native to South and Central America and belongs to the daisy family. It can also be found in many flowerbeds in our region. Planting several plants next to each other creates a veritable carpet of flowers. Liver balm is also ideal as a gap filler between various other perennials. It can also be grown in tubs or window boxes. However, liver balm is unsuitable if animals or small children play in the garden, as it is a poisonous plant.

Blossom:
The mostly small, fringed composite flowers grow in densely packed flower heads. The color variety is vast, ranging from white to blue to deep blue, with pink or wine-red varieties also occurring. An added bonus is the wonderful fragrance of the blossoms.
Growth:
Depending on the variety, they are either compact and bushy or upright and long-stemmed. No runners are formed. Depending on the variety, they usually grow between 10 and 60 cm tall.
Flowering time:
July to October
Location:
Partial shade to full sun, ideal for perennial beds. Tall varieties combine well with perennials, while shorter varieties are suitable for edging beds and grave decorations. Protect from heavy rain.
Care:
Plant in a well-ventilated location. Fertilize every two to four weeks, preferably with liquid fertilizer. Water regularly, but be careful not to allow waterlogging. Before planting, enrich the soil well with garden fertilizer. Regularly remove dead flowers.
Reproduction:
Sowing can take place either in a greenhouse or on a windowsill from the end of February at approximately 20°C. Do not plant outdoors before mid-May. Direct sowing is not recommended.
Varieties:
Liver balm is available in low and high varieties.
low varieties:
'Blue Danube' (compact growth; medium blue flowers; approximately 15 to 20 cm tall)
'Blue Fields' (dark blue flowers; approximately 15 to 20 cm tall)
tall varieties:
'Old Grey' (grey-blue flowers; about 50 cm tall)
'Schnittwunder' (pale blue flowers; very large umbels; approximately 70 cm tall), 'Dondoschnittperle' (deep blue flowers; strong stems; approximately 70 cm tall)
TEXT: Carina Naeve