Castanet (Pallenis spinosa)

In the fields we can find all kinds of plants; some more striking than others, but all just as interesting. The one that I am going to talk to you about next is one of the most common in the Mediterranean region. Its scientific name is Pallenis spinosa, although you may know it more by the name of castanet.

It is a decorative herb that also has medicinal properties, which is why we invite you to grow it in your patio or garden.

Origin and characteristics

Our protagonist is a annual herb that we find in fields, roads, grasslands, gutters, and even in the rocky areas of the Mediterranean region and in the Canary Islands. Its scientific name is Pallenis spinosa, and grows to a height of 60-70cm. It develops more or less straight stalks, pink at the end. The flower heads measure about 2,5cm in diameter, are solitary and yellow in color.

Its growth rate is fast, so if you have rheumatism, a bruise, fever or headache, you can use its flowers to make poultices sooner than expected.

What are their cares?

If you dare to have a copy, we recommend that you provide it with the following care:

• Location: the Pallenis spinosa outside, in full sun.
• Earth:
  • Pot: universal growing substrate alone or mixed with 30% perlite.
  • Garden: fertile, with good drainage.
• Irrigation: 2-3 times a week in summer, somewhat less the rest of the year.
• Subscriber: pay throughout the season with Organic fertilizers, using liquids if the plant is grown in a pot.
• Planting time: as soon as it has reached an easily manipulable size (about 10cm).
• Multiplication: by seeds or cuttings in summer.
• Rusticity: does not support frost. When the temperature drops below 10ºC it starts to spoil.

Have you heard of the plant known as castanet? What do you think?