DEERTONGUE

Chemical Properties

This is a stout, erect herb, 2 to 3 ft high, with smooth, thick leaves 4 to 10 in. long and 1 to 0.5 in. wide. In August to September, the small, purple flowers are borne, 5 to 10 in a head, in branched, rather flat-topped clusters. The plant is very common in the southeastern United States, where it is also known as prairie pine or blazing star (which refers to the shape and the flowers of the plant). The leaves of this plant become very fragrant when dried. The leaves are the part used. Deertongue has a green, sharp, herbaceous to intensely vanilla-sweet and candy-like taste.