Arnebia benthamii

Arnebia benthamii is a perennial in the borage family, Boraginaceae. Its native range runs from northeast Pakistan through the western and central Himalaya. Kew places it in subalpine or subarctic climates. In the wild, it grows on open slopes and among shrubs. These sites lie at elevations of 9,840–14,110 feet [3,000–4,300 metres]. It is not native to Britain or Ireland. An older scientific name is Macrotomia benthamii.

Plants reach about 3 feet [0.9 metres] in height. The supplied sources give no spread or detailed leaf description. They also give no account of its stems or fruit. PFAF records flowering in May, but does not describe flower colour. Each flower has both male and female organs. Insects pollinate the flowers. Ripe seeds disperse fast, which affects when growers should collect them.

In gardens, this plant needs sun and soil that drains well. PFAF recommends a gritty mix for rock gardens or dry walls. It also lists sunny woodland edges and south- or west-facing walls. The plant cannot grow in shade. Sandy soil suits it, and poor soil need not prevent growth. It accepts mildly acid, neutral, and mildly alkaline conditions. Soil can be dry or moist, but drainage remains important. PFAF lists USDA hardiness zones 6–9.

Seed and cuttings offer several ways to raise new plants. Sow seeds in a greenhouse during spring. At 68°F [20°C], germination takes about two to eight weeks. Move seedlings into separate pots once they are large enough. Keep them in the greenhouse through their first winter. Plant them outside after the last expected frost. Late spring or early summer is the stated planting period. Collect seed just before full ripeness to reduce losses. Autumn heel cuttings can root in sand in a cold frame. Winter root cuttings provide another option under frame protection.

PFAF records no known food uses for this species. It reports traditional uses for fever, heart complaints, and tongue or throat disorders. These records do not establish safe or effective treatment. PFAF lists no known hazards, but this does not prove safety. It records no other uses and marks the plant as non-weedy. The supplied evidence names no specific pests or diseases.