Common Name:

General Information

Espeletia argentea is an evergreen plant with a short or subterranean stem topped by a dense whorl of leaves that are each around 25 - 45cm long and 12 - 20mm wide. It can grow around 30 - 50cm tall with erect flowering branches that can be up to 125cm tall
The plant is harvested from the wild for local use as a medicine and source of a resin.
Although Espeletia argentea has a restricted distribution, it is present in protected areas and there are no significant threats that may be affecting its population. The plant is classified as 'Least Concern' in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species(2013)[].

Known Hazards

None known

Botanical References

Range

Northwestern S. America - Colombia

Habitat

Open, windswept areas, locally very abundant forming dense populations and developing well in abandoned cultivated fields; at elevations from 2,600 - 3,800 metres

Properties

Conservation Status	Least Concern
Edibility Rating
Medicinal Rating
Other Uses Rating
Habit	Perennial
Height	0.00 m
Pollinators	Beetles, Bumblebees
Cultivation Status	Wild

Cultivation Details

Espeletia argentea is a plant of higher elevations in the tropical regions of the Andes, mainly at elevations between 2,600 - 3,800 metres. The plants are usually found above the tree line in open, windswept regions known as Páramos, where the climate is wet and cool with a relative humidity that can be around 110%. The high elevation means there are high levels of UV radiation and a daily seasonality with night-time temperatures able to fall below zero at any time of the year.
The plant requires an open position in a humus-rich soil that does not dry out and a good supply of clean water. The various species do not generally grow well outside of their native habitat or other similar habitats, though some have occasionally been cultivated successfully at lower elevations or in greenhouses in the temperate zone.
The whole plant has a peculiar and certainly somewhat terebinthine odour.

Edible Uses

We have no specific information for this species, but the leaves of most (if not all) members of this genus can be used to make a bitter but tasty, refreshing tea that also has medicinal benefits[]. One medium-sized leaf is washed then boiled vigorously for at least 10 minutes, the liquid is then drunk whilst hot. Cinnamon is also traditionally added for a bit of flavour[].

Medicinal

The plant (part not specified) is used in the treatment of conditions of the blood and circulatory system, in particular varicose veins; for pregnancy, child birth and post partum care; conditions of the respitarory system, especially asthma and lung diseases; and for ear problems (otitis)[].

We have no further specific information for this species, but most (if not all) species in this and several other related genera are used medicinally in the High Andes. In particular, the plant contains essential oils and resin, and an infusion of the leaves is used traditionally to alleviate altitude sickness and aid breathing at higher elevations. It is also used to treat respiratory conditions (including bronchitis, influenza, cough and asthma) and to treat digestive problems[].

Other Uses

The plant yields a copious gum-resin, used in the preparation of ink and for other purposes.
Most, if not all, species in this and in several other related genera yield an abundant, aromatic resin. It can be used as an incense, or to extract oil of turpentine, which is used as a solvent for paints and varnishes[].

The spongy leaves make an excellent camping mattress or pillow. Simply harvest dry leaves, evenly pile them, then lie down to compress them a bit. Stuff them inside a plastic bag to make a decent pillow, or heap them under your tent for a little extra comfort in the night[].

Propagation

Seed -

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