PlantFiles: Balm of Gilead, Canary Balm, Herb of Gilead
Cedronella canariensis

This plant was given to me as an alternative to Citronella by a local nursery. My main goal was mosquito repellant. Have not noticed any strong odor (whereas my old citronella plant used to give off a strong odor), though the plants are still smallish.

This is not the Biblical herb given to Solomon by the Queen of Sheba, this is a woody, short lived perennial from the Canary Islands.

Has mid-dark green, toothed, scented (cedar like), three lobed, lanceolate leaves held on upright stems. Bears 2 lipped, pink, white or lilac flowers.

Flowers July-September.

Likes a well drained, loam soil in full sun. Is only hardy down to 41F so needs protection or to be grown indoors in areas which have winter frosts. It will require a 10 inch pot or larger to reach full size and will appreciate a spell out side in warm weather.

Sometimes used in perfumes and pot pourri to add a musk scent.

Many sources state some medicinal uses, however, it has no known theraputic value. It was once used to rub on rheumatic joints, bruises and sprains.

The leaves could be used in a mix of other scented herbs such as lemon balm and lavender, in a smelling sachet to clear the head as it has a menthol/camphor smell.