Gojnik Sideritis syriaca L. belongs to the Lyme family. It is known in the world as Greek mountain tea, and in Asian countries as Lebanese sage.Jis a perennial plant belonging to the hardiness zone 8, where the minimum average temperature is from -12 ° C to -7 ° C, therefore in our country it should be wintered indoors (the warmest regions of Poland are classified as zone 7b, the coldest is zone 5b).This species has been used as a herb in the regions of its occurrence, ie in the Mediterranean and East Asia, for over 2400 years.
Hippocrates already described the valuable healing properties of the gentleman, including, among others, sedative, diuretic and beneficial effects on the digestive system. Modern medicine confirms these properties, and also points to other ones: for example, a strong antioxidant and limiting the development of osteoporosis, as well as anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
The useful part of the reptile are leaves and flowers, most often dried, used to make one or multi-component infusions. The leaves of this plant growing up to 40 cm are lanceolate, white-flecked, 5-6 cm long, somewhat similar to sage leaves. Its flowers are light yellow.Gojnik, like most Mediterranean herbs, grows best in a sunny position.It should be ensured that full sun exposure lasts at least 6 hours during the day.
It is grown in soil rich in organic matter with good air and water characteristics, with adequate drainage and a pH of 7 or higher.It is not susceptible to drought because it occurs naturally in mountainous areas.
Propagation and cultivation
The easiest way to grow a horse is to sow seeds in pots in a greenhouse or tunnel in the spring and grow it outside during frost-free periods. In late autumn, plants should be moved indoors - otherwise they may freeze.After a year of cultivation, the hens can be planted permanently, but for the winter they should be hidden or possibly very carefully protected against frost.
They should be planted 50x60 cm apart.The above-ground parts of the plant die during the winter and form again in the spring of the following year.
