Notes

Gillyweed
- rare
- from Mediterranean Sea
- height : from 5 to 7cm
- soil : moderatly alkaline (pH 7.9-8.4)
- needs a lot of water, does not require much light
- family : gilliac weeds
- slimy, grows as in bushel, grey-green color
- consumption : temporary growth of gills and webs between toes and fingers / refreshed, nourishing feeling
- used to make Gillywater (refreshing)

Valerian root
- from Europe, Asia, migrated to North America
- height : 5 feet
- soil : very strong acid (pH 4.5–5.0), 1/8 inch down
- 7 hours of sun
- harvest : fall or spring
- bunch of white flowers
- sedative powers
- anxiolytic : used in calming droughts and potions
- sprig used in perfumes (mix of cherry and vanilla)
- root wore by grooms in weddings
- used in Draught of Living Death and Forgetfulness Potion
- attract cats like catnip

Knotgrass
- European forests (including forbidden forest)
- height : 5cm to 4m (greenhouses : 2 inches 14 feets)
- soil : from slightly acid to neutral (pH 6.1-7.3)
- plenty of water, the sunnier the faster it will grow
- flowers in the summer, white, pink, green flowers, stem cut below flowering after blooming
- used in weddings : symbolize the tying together of two people 
- used in polyjuice potions, Knotgrass mead, love potions
- halt the growth of animals
- helps cure urinary tract infections and fertility issues

Dittany
- from Crete, Greece
- height : 20 to 30cm
- soil : neutral (pH 6.6-7.3)
- needs warmth and sunlight
- greenhouse : 13°C, seeds lightly covered in soil, sprinkled lightly with water, wait until the soil is dry before watering again
- romantic quality
- used in curing ailments, love potion, wand core, Wiggenweld potion, prevents permanent scarring
- liquid form : brown, must be diluted

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Essay

Prompt
Which plant which was covered this week do you feel is most useful, and why ?

Response

Valerian is a plant that grows in Europe and Asia, and that has also migrated to North America. It can grow up to five feet, and has white flowers. It grows in a very acid soil, and needs a lot of sun. It can be harvested in spring or fall.

Its root has sedative and anxiolytic powers that can be used in calming droughts. For example, it's an ingredient for the Draught of Living Death and the Draught of Peace. Its sprigs have a strong smell that is used for perfumes, and are also used in the Forgetfulness Potion. 

I think this plant is the most useful because is has many uses for everyday situations like sleeping trouble and stress.