Iberis

Taxobox
name = "Iberis"


image_caption = Perennial candytuft ("Iberis sempervirens")
regnum = Plantae
unranked_divisio = Angiosperms
unranked_classis = Eudicots
unranked_ordo = Rosids
ordo = Brassicales
familia = Brassicaceae
genus = "Iberis"
genus_authority = L.
subdivision_ranks = Species
subdivision = ~50; see text|

:"This article is about the plant genus. See also Operation Candytuft."

"Iberis" is a genus of flowering plant belonging to the family Brassicaceae. It comprises herbs and subshrubs of the Old World. These species are commonly known as candytufts.

Medicinal uses

According to the US Dispensatory (1918), the leaves, stem, and root are said to possess medicinal properties, but the seeds are most efficacious. The plant appears to have been employed by the ancients in rheumatism, gout, and other diseases. In large doses it is said to produce giddiness, nausea, and diarrhea, and to be useful in cardiac hypertrophy, asthma, and bronchitis in doses of from one to three grains (0.065--0.2 Gm.) of the seed. Currently the foliage and stalks are employed in German phytomedicine as a bitter digestive tonic, and it is used in homeopathy for nervousness and muscle sorenessfact| date = August 2008.

pecies

The genus "Iberis" consists of about 50 species of annuals, perennials and evergreen subshrubs. Some of the more well-known are:

"Iberis amara" - rocket candytuft
"Iberis gibraltarica" - Gibraltar candytuft
"Iberis sempervirens" - evergreen candytuft, perennial candytuft
"Iberis umbellata" - globe candytuft

They are excellent for rock gardens, bedding and borders. Candytuft is a fast-hardy, fast-growing annual with lance shaped green leaves. It reaches a height of about 12 inches with a spread of about 6 inches. Lightly trim after flowering.

External links

* [http://aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/wildseed/22/22.4.html More information at Texas A&M]