Medicinal Plants of the Civil War

Could plants have played a role in the outcome of the Civil War?  Learn how important plants were in every aspect of this conflict, on battlefields and home fronts of both the North and the South.  Over 30 plants are discussed and their medicinal properties noted.  "Receipts," or recipes are included for popular herbal remedies such as horehound lozenges and witch hazel tonic. The history of patent medicines is explored and you will meet one of America's most important poets, the first African American physician and the man who revolutionized medical texts.  Audiences are often surprised to see how many "Civil War" plants they are already growing, and the haunting historic images create a compelling tale of interest to history buffs as well as gardeners. 

There will be time at the end for Q&A. This program will not be recorded.

Lesley Parness is the former Superintendent of Horticultural Education at the Morris County Park Commission, where she oversaw education, programming and interpretation at various sites for fifteen years. She is a founding member and past President of Garden State Gardens.