Common Boneset

What you'll need:

Seeds or young plants of Common Boneset (you can find them at nurseries that specialize in native plants)

Soil that holds moisture well (if your soil is too sandy or dry, mix in some compost to improve it)

A small shovel or trowel

• A patch of land, preferably near water or damp areas

When to start:

The best time to plant Common Boneset is in early spring when the ground begins to warm up but is still moist. If you're starting with seeds, you can sow them in late fall or early winter to mimic natural germination conditions.

Choosing a spot:

Common Boneset loves wet feet! It’s happiest in soggy or consistently damp areas, so look for spots like near a pond, along a stream, or in a rain garden. If you don’t have a naturally wet area, consider planting it where water tends to collect after rain.

Tip: If you live in an area with dry summers, you might want to plan for extra watering or add mulch to help retain moisture.

If you’re starting from seeds:

1. Scatter the seeds lightly over the soil surface in your chosen spot. You don’t need to bury them deep—just press them gently into the soil.
2. Water the area thoroughly but gently, so the seeds aren’t washed away.
3. Keep the soil consistently moist while you wait for sprouts. Germination can take a few weeks to a couple of months, so be patient!

If you’re planting young plants:

1. Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball of the plant.
2. Place the plant in the hole and backfill with soil, pressing down gently to remove air pockets.
3. Water generously right after planting to help the roots settle in.

Spacing:

• If you’re planting multiple Bonesets, space them about 18-24 inches apart. They’ll grow tall and bushy, so they need room to spread out.

Tip: If you’re planting near a pond or stream, you can place them a little closer together since they’ll naturally spread over time.

Watering:

• Common Boneset thrives in wet conditions, so don’t let the soil dry out completely. If you notice the top inch of soil feeling dry, it’s time to water.
• In hot or dry weather, you may need to water every other day or even daily if it’s particularly parched.
• Tip: If you have a sprinkler system or soaker hose, this plant will love the consistent moisture.

Sunlight:

• Boneset prefers full sun to partial shade. Aim for at least 4-6 hours of sunlight per day.
• If you’re in a really hot climate, a bit of afternoon shade can prevent the leaves from scorching.

Fertilizing:

• This plant doesn’t need much fertilizer. If you want to give it a boost, use a light application of a balanced, slow-release fertilizer once a year in early spring.
• Too much fertilizer can actually harm Boneset, as it’s adapted to growing in nutrient-poor soils.

Pruning:

• You can trim back the plant in late fall or early spring to encourage new growth and keep it looking tidy.
• Deadheading (removing spent flowers) isn’t necessary, but it can help the plant focus its energy on healthy growth rather than seed production.

Tip: Don’t worry if the plant looks a little wild—it’s supposed to! Boneset has a natural, unkempt charm.

When to harvest:

• Common Boneset is primarily grown for its medicinal properties, so the best time to harvest is when the plant is in full bloom, usually in mid to late summer.
• The flowers and leaves are the parts most commonly used.

How to harvest:

1. Use clean scissors or pruning shears to cut the flowering stems. Make sure to leave enough foliage on the plant so it can continue to grow and thrive.
2. Harvest in the morning after the dew has dried but before the sun gets too hot—this is when the plant’s oils are most potent.

Drying and storing:

• Hang the stems upside down in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area to dry them out completely.
• Once dried, strip the leaves and flowers from the stems and store them in an airtight container.
• Label the container with the date and store it in a dark, cool place to preserve its potency.

Tip: Boneset has been traditionally used in teas or tinctures, but it’s always a good idea to consult with an herbalist or doctor before using it medicinally.

Q: My Boneset’s leaves are turning yellow. What’s wrong?

A: Yellow leaves could mean the plant is either too dry or sitting in standing water. Check the soil moisture—if it’s too soggy, improve drainage by adding sand or gravel. If it’s too dry, increase watering frequency.

Q: Does Boneset attract any wildlife?

A: Absolutely! Boneset is a pollinator magnet, especially for bees and butterflies. It’s also a host plant for certain moth species, so you might see caterpillars munching on the leaves.

Q: Can I grow Boneset in a regular garden bed?

A: Yes, but you’ll need to ensure the soil stays consistently moist. Regular garden beds can dry out quickly, so mulching heavily or installing drip irrigation will help retain moisture.

Q: Is Boneset invasive?

A: While Boneset can spread through seeds and rhizomes, it’s not considered highly invasive. However, it can form dense colonies over time, so if you want to control its spread, remove unwanted seedlings as they pop up.

Q: Why is it called "Boneset"?

A: Historically, Boneset was used to treat “breakbone fever” (dengue fever), which caused severe muscle and joint pain. Although its medicinal uses have declined, it remains a valuable plant for pollinators and wetland restoration.