Arnica montana

Arnica montana, also known as mountain arnica, is a hardy perennial herb valued for its bright yellow, daisy-like flowers and long-standing role in traditional herbal medicine. Blooming in early to mid-summer, it brings wild beauty to naturalistic borders and alpine-style plantings, especially in cooler climates.

Reaching 30–60 cm tall and spreading 20–40 cm, it grows best in full sun and moist but sharply drained, acidic soils — ideally low in fertility. It does not thrive in rich or heavy soils and prefers cooler summers, making it best suited to elevated or southerly sites in New Zealand. The golden blooms are pollinator-friendly and can be used for herbal salves — but only topically, as the plant is toxic if ingested.

Native to alpine meadows across Europe, arnica was historically gathered for treating bruises and sprains — a use that persists today in topical ointments and creams, making it one of the most enduring medicinal flowers in European tradition.

Bright yellow daisy flowers; soft green basal foliage

Height 30–60 cm; spread 20–40 cm

Flowers early to mid-summer

Prefers full sun and acidic, low-fertility, well-drained soil

Frost hardy; dislikes heat and humidity

Origin: Europe (alpine regions)

Grown for traditional herbal topical use (not edible)

Attracts pollinators

10cm pot.

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