Accession #: 200201829
Accession Date: 2002-07-03
Common name: Autumn Mandrake
Family: Solanaceae
Synonym(s): <i>Mandragora officinarum</i> L.
Country of Origin: southern Europe
Description: Mandragora autumnalis is considered a synonym of M. officinarum by some authorities, while others consider it a distinct species. Molecular evidence suggests that it is indeed distinct and we have treated it as such here.1,3
Mandragora autumnalis is a perennial herb with thick tuberous roots native to Southern Europe. Mandrake roots contain the alkaloid hyoscymine that is used for motion sickness and as a preoperative anesthetic. In early times Mandrake had magical properties ascribed to it because the roots sometimes have humanlike form. 2
Uses: Mandrake has had many reputed medicinal qualities but most of them have been dispelled. Ingestion of sufficient quantities of Mandragora are often fatal.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Plant Uses are for informational purposes only. EEB Greenhouses assume no responsibility for adverse effects from the use of any plants referred to on this site. Always seek advice from a professional before using any plant medicinally.
USDA Zone:
Source: Matt Opel ex Horizon Herbs (seed)
Provenance:
Plant grown from seed (labelled Mandragora officinalis). Later determined by Matt Opel to be Mandragora autumnalis (most likely) due to fall blooming and purple flowers. Name changed 22DEC2011 by CMORSE.
Restrictions:
Culture:
It likes a light, deep soil, as the roots run far down. They will do poorly in a soil that is chalky or excessively gravelly. If the soil is too wet in winter, the roots will rot. It is propagated from seeds which should be sown in deep flats or, better, singly in pots. These should be kept well-watered and when they reach a good size they should be carefully set out at least 2 feet apart.