Mandrakes are one of the oldest known medicinal plants that are still used in homeopathy today. Although the mandrake is more at home in the Mediterranean region, it can also be cultivated in German gardens. This is how you plant the poisonous ornamental plant correctly.
How do I plant mandrakes correctly?
To plant mandrakes correctly, choose a sunny to partially shaded location with humus-rich, loose soil. Ensure a planting distance of 30 cm and plant early mandrakes in spring or autumn. Protect them from frost with mulch.
Where does the mandrake feel comfortable?
Mandrakes thrive best in a sunny or partially shaded, somewhat sheltered location. Plant them in the partial shade of deciduous trees.
Which plant substrate is suitable?
The soil should be rich in humus and nice and loose. The mandrake cannot tolerate waterlogging. The long roots would rot.
Can the mandrake be preferred?
You can sow mandrakes indoors all year round. When sowing seeds directly outdoors, spring is best.
When is the best time to plant?
Plant early mandrakes in spring or autumn. If you put it in the ground in autumn, you must protect the mandrake from frost with a layer of mulch.
What planting distance is ideal?
Mandrakes don't need a lot of space. A distance of 30 centimeters is usually sufficient.
Can mandrakes be transplanted?
Transplanting mandrakes is not recommended. On the one hand, it is very difficult to get the long roots out of the ground undamaged. On the other hand, mandrakes do not benefit from transplanting. It's better to sow new specimens.
How is mandrake propagated?
Propagation occurs via seeds that ripen in the small berries.
Alternatively, you can also propagate mandrakes by taking cuttings in winter. You care for these in the house until they have formed roots.
How poisonous is the mandrake?
The mandrake is poisonous in all parts of the plant. Although there are sources that say the berries are edible, it is safer to avoid eating mandrake berries.
If you want to plant the mandrake as a medicinal plant, you should be careful. An overdose can become noticeable through:
- severe nausea without vomiting
- dilated pupils
- Pulse acceleration
- Shortness of breath
- Unconsciousness
Tip
The mandrake is also called the hangman or dragon doll. It was already used as a magical plant by the ancient Greeks. There she was named Circea after the sorceress Circe.