Arnica montana (Arnica) 9 cm Pot

Growth habit & appearance: Arnica montana forms a low, tidy clump of soft, slightly downy green leaves arranged in a basal rosette. In early summer it sends up slender stems topped with vivid yellow, daisy-like flowers, each with a golden centre and narrow, radiant petals. These bright blooms are highly attractive to pollinators, especially bees and hoverflies, giving the plant real visual presence despite its modest height of around 30 cm. The combination of its alpine-style foliage and striking flowers makes this one of the most recognisable external-use herbs in traditional European practice.

Growing conditions: Fully hardy in the Irish climate, Arnica montana prefers full sun and thrives in poor, acidic, well-drained soils—conditions similar to its native European mountain meadows. It does not appreciate heavy feeding or rich compost, as overly fertile soil can weaken growth and reduce flowering. When supplied in a 9 cm pot, it should be planted into open ground or a sandy, free-draining bed. Plants can be divided and replanted in early spring or autumn to maintain healthy clumps.

Traditional & herbal uses: Arnica montana flowers have a long history of external-only use for muscular pains, bruises and nerve-related discomforts in European tradition. It is a toxic herb and is not for internal use. Only intact skin should be used for external applications, and the flowers are the part historically referenced.

Maintenance & harvesting: Arnica prefers lean, low-nutrient soil—avoid applying fertiliser of any kind. Deadhead or harvest flowers regularly throughout summer and early autumn to encourage prolonged blooming. Keep the soil lightly moist but never waterlogged. Cut back old stems after flowering to maintain compact growth. Divide clumps every few years to prevent congestion and support continued flowering, especially if grown in garden beds rather than natural acidic soils.