By David Sargert
During a recent conversation with long-time customer Connie Graves we explored the medicinal qualities of a number of plants and then got onto the subject of mosquito control.
Connie shared some fascinating findings from recently completed research at the University of Mississippi. It seems the folks in rural Miss. have known for generations that American beautyberry (Callicarpa Americana) works as an effective mosquito repellant.
We love this kind of thing and being good scientists we set up a clinical study at the nursery which included a full laboratory funded by millions of dollars of grants from the U.S. government to save the population of the USA from the imminent zika virus pandemic while also providing jobs for all of Texas. . . just kidding!
I asked our resident expert Jerry Hinson to score me some beautyberry leaves from his backyard. I crushed a few leaves in my hands, rubbed them on my legs, arms and neck and proceeded into our way-overgrown vegetable garden.
This is generally a dreaded exercise as the chiggers have made a home there along with their annoying buddies the mosquitos and other mouths with wings.
I hate those things and my ankles have itched for the rest of the day from previous excursions there. ‘Cowboy up’ I told myself as I walked toward the bramble: ‘This is for science!’ I worked in the grass and weeds for over an hour. Not one bite! Not ONE!
The plant is also an ornamental gem with deep green leaves and violet/magenta clusters of berries on the stems. (Jerry has a secret stash of a rare white berry variety he offers to special customers: code word ‘google.’)
It grows to 7’ x 7’ and requires well drained soil. It also makes a good jelly. (More on that in the future.)
Unfortunately it is NOT a mammal repellant and all sorts of furry critters love it; adjust accordingly. Science + Food + Aesthetics = Must Have! Happy gardening everyone!
If you have a question for Chris, send it via email to iathyme@yahoo.com. Or mail a postcard to It’s About Thyme11726 Manchaca Road, Austin, TX 78748 www.itsaboutthyme.com
