Arnica chamissonis (Mountain tobacco) 9 cm Pot

Growth habit & appearance: Arnica chamissonis is a low, clump-forming perennial with soft green, slightly hairy leaves arranged along upright stems reaching around 40 cm. In summer it produces bright yellow, daisy-like flowers with a central golden disc, giving the plant a vivid and cheerful appearance reminiscent of miniature sunflowers. These flowers are highly attractive to bees and other pollinators, making the plant both visually appealing and ecologically valuable in a herb garden. Its tidy habit and repeated flushes of blooms give it strong ornamental interest throughout the season.

Growing conditions: Fully hardy in Ireland, Arnica chamissonis thrives in full sun and prefers light, well-drained soil. As a European–American species adapted to open meadows and upland slopes, it performs well in cooler climates and tolerates Irish weather reliably. Avoid rich soil or heavy fertiliser, as this species naturally grows in nutrient-poor ground and can weaken or flop if overfed. Supplied in a 9 cm pot, it can be planted out once the soil is workable. Plants grown in containers should be divided periodically to maintain vigour.

Traditional & herbal uses: Arnica has a long history of external-only use in European and North American herbal traditions, particularly for bruises and sprain-related discomfort. It is considered a toxic herb and is not for internal use, and not for use on broken skin. The flowers are the part most commonly referenced for external preparations.

Maintenance & harvesting: Keep the soil moderately moist but not rich—avoid fertiliser, as arnica prefers lean conditions. Deadhead or pick flowers regularly to encourage repeat blooming throughout the summer. Cut back the plant after flowering to maintain shape and promote fresh growth. In pots, divide clumps every couple of years to prevent overcrowding and maintain health. Protect young plants from competing weeds and ensure good drainage, particularly in wet winters.