Cedronella
Balsam shrub ( Cedronella canariensis)
The balsam shrub ( Cedronella canariensis), also known as Canary Lemon Bush, is the only species of the monotypic genus Cedronella within the mint family ( Lamiaceae). He is resident in the Canary Islands, Madeira and the Azores.
Description
The balm grows as a deciduous, perennial herbaceous plant. The pink, hermaphroditic flowers are pollinated by insects.
Occurrence
The balsam shrub is native to the Canary Islands, Madeira and the Azores. It prefers partial shade and moist locations.
System
Was first published in 1753 this type by Linnaeus under the name ( basionym ) Dracocephalum canariense in Species Plantarum, 2, pp. 594 to 1836 in Philip Barker Webb and Sabin Berthelot: Histoire Naturelle des Îles Canaries, 3, p 87 placed in the genus Cedronella. Conrad Moench has the genus Cedronella Methodus Plantas Horti 1794 in Botanici et Agri Marburgensis: S. 411 erected a staminum situ describendi, with the type species Cedronella triphylla. Today Cedronella triphylla Moench is a synonym for Cedronella canariensis (L.) Webb & Berthel ..
Cedronella canariensis is the only species of the monotypic genus Cedronella from the tribe Mentheae in the subfamily within the family Lamiaceae Nepetoideae
Use
From the leaves an infusion can be made. For this purpose are used either fresh or dried, not yet flowering, aboveground plant parts. As odor and the dried leaves are used because they have a pleasant aromatic scent.