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GROWING
THE HALLUCINOGENS

How to Cultivate and Harvest Legal Psychoactive Plants

By Hudson Grubber

□ high TIMES/LEVEL press

FROM

The TwentietIi Century AlchEMisT

 PRONUNCIATION

Botanical nomenclature is a language in itself, thrown into a Latin form.

Many names are not pronounced according to the rules of classical Latin.
The pronunciation guide given below is based on the Standard Cyclopedia
of Horticulture, and is consistent with standard horticultural pronuncia¬
tion in most instances.
Accent marks indicate the syllable bearing principal stress and the qual¬
ity of the accented vowel. A grave accent (') designates a “long” vowel,
and an acute accent ( ) designates a short vowel.
The following are the vowel sounds: a as in cane, a as in can; e as in
meet, e as in met; i as in pine, i as in pin; 6 as in cone, 6 as in con; u as in
jute, u as in jut; y is often used as a vowel instead of i.

The combination oi as in “-oides” is pronounced “oh-EYE-deez”; as an

ending it is pronounced “oy.” Ph is pronounced as /. Ti followed by a
vowel has the sound of “she” as in Nicotiana (“ni-koe-she-AY-na”) and
Spartium (“SPAR-she-um”). Oe is pronounced as the long e in “meet.”
Ei as an ending is pronounced as two syllables, “ay-eye,” as in blumei
(“BLUE-may-eye”). Ia as an ending is pronounced “ee-ah,” as in Heimia
(“Hl-mee-ah”).
The following botanical names appear in the text:
Abrus precatorius Humulus lupulus
Acorus calamus Hydrangea paniculata grandifldra
Actinidia polygama Hyoscyamus niger
Areca catechu Ilex Paraguayensis
Argem one mexicana lochroma coccineum
Argyreia nervosa I. fuchsioides
Artemisia absinthium
a
/. lanceolatum
Atropa belladonna I. tubuldsum
Calliandra anomala Ipomoea tricolor
Cat ha edulis I. violacea
Cathdranthus rosea Kaempferia galanga
Coleus blumei Lactuca virosa
C. pumilus Leondtis leonurus
Coriaria thymifdlia Lobelia in flat a
Coryphantha macromeris Mandragora officinarum
Cytisus canariensis Merremia tuberdsa
C. scoparius Mirabilis multiflora
Datura arbdrea Myristica fragrans
D. Candida Nepeta cataria
D. chlorantha Nicotiana tabacum
D. fastuosa Pas si flora in cam at a
D. inoxia Peganum harmala
D. metel Piper methysticum
D. meteloides Podophyllum peltatum
D. sanguinea Rhynchdsia phaseoloides
D. stramonium Rivea corymbdsa
D. s. var. t a tula Salvia divinorum
D. suaveolens Sassafras albidum
Ephedra nevadensis S. officinale
Erythrina flabelliformis Sophora secundifldra
Eschscholzia californica Spartium junceum
Foeniculum vulgare Trichocereus pachanoi
Genista canariensis Turner a diffusa
Heimia myrtifdlia Vinca rosea
H. salicifdlia
 Digitized by the Internet Archive
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 GROWING
THE HALLUCINOGENS
How to Cultivate and Harvest Legal Psychoactive Plants

By Hudson Grubber

Q HIGH TIMES/LEVEL PRESS

COPYRIGHT ©1973
20TH CENTURY ALCHEMIST
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Third Printing
 INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this book is to introduce the reader to the general arts
of plant cultivation and propagation, and to give specific information on
growing certain psychoactive plants.
For each plant we give a brief description, and the methods of cultiva¬
tion, propagation, and harvesting.
There are sections on general propagation and cultivation techniques in
the beginning of the book. Propagation has been stressed because adequate
information is often lacking in garden books. These sections explain the
terminology used in the information found under each plant.
A list of suppliers of seeds, cuttings, and dried herbs may be found on
page 32.
Complete information on the preparation, dosage, use, active constitu¬
ents, effects and side effects of the plant materials discussed in this book
can be found in another publication from the Twentieth Century Alche¬
mist entitled Legal Highs.
At the time of this writing, the plants covered in this book are legal.
It may interest some readers that the Church of the Tree of Life has de¬
clared as religious sacraments most of the plants in this book, thereby pro¬
tecting its members from any future legislation involving these plants.
Those seeking further information should send a stamped, self-addressed
envelope to the Church of the Tree of Life, 451 Columbus Avenue, San
Francisco, California 94133.
The author welcomes any correspondence concerning the cultivation of
psychoactive plants. He is especially interested in any information on
psychoactive plants that are not discussed here. Please write clearly and
enclose a stamped, self-addressed envelope for a reply. Address your let¬
ters to:
Author, GTH
c/o The Twentieth Century Alchemist
P. O. Box 4858
San Francisco, California 94101

I wish to thank my wife for typing this manuscript.

2
 PROPAGATION

Propagation is the reproduction of plants, and is accomplished by two

different means. One is by seeds or spores (the normal reproductive
process of plants), the other is by vegetative propagation, which involves
cuttings, layers, division, separation, or graftings.

Seeds
The seeds of many annuals will germinate (sprout) readily when sown
directly in the ground in spring. Other plants have seeds with hard seed-
coats or dormancies that must be broken before they will grow. Methods
of doing so include:

Nicking and Soaking: Large seeds often benefit from soaking in water
overnight or until swollen. Some seeds, such as the mescal bean and large
woodrose, will refuse to swell unless the seed coat is nicked or scratched
first. With a knife, small file, or hacksaw blade, scrape away a small por¬
tion of the seedcoat on the side opposite the hilum or germ eye (the small
dent where the seed sprouts). The hole should not be big, just large enough
for water to enter during soaking.
When soaking any seed, be sure to plant it as soon as it is swollen, as
some seeds will drown if left for long in the water.
Stratification: Some seeds need to be stratified before they will germinate.
This process involves placing the seed in damp peat moss or sand, and stor¬
ing at a low temperature until dormancy is broken.
Chemicals: Chemicals are sometimes used for seeds with hard seedcoats
that are not affected by stratification or soaking. In nature, these seeds
have their coats softened by the digestive juices of birds and animals that
eat them. Acids such as vinegar or sulfuric acid, and alkalies like sodium
hypochlorite (Clorox) are used. The seeds must be thoroughly washed
after treatment.
Scalding Seeds: Other hard-shelled seeds, particularly in the bean family,
are best treated by scalding with boiling water. To do this, place the seeds
in a teacup, and pour boiling water over them. The water is allowed to
cool and the seeds are soaked until they swell. This may be repeated with
any seed that does not swell after the first time.
Peat Moss: This is a very good medium in which to sprout seeds. Put some
milled sphagnum moss (peat moss) in a plastic bag. Add water and knead
thoroughly until the moss is uniformly damp. Fill a shallow pan or alumi¬
num pie tin about 1 inch deep with the damp moss. Cover with plastic
wrap, or a sheet of glass. Seeds may be started on the surface of the moss
or buried in it; with or without bottom heat.
Bottom Heat: This hastens germination of many seeds. To provide bottom
heat, take a strong corrugated cardboard box and turn it upside down with
a 40-watt light inside. Cut slits or small holes in the bottom to let the heat
through to the flats or seed pans. Be sure that the heat will not cook the
seedlings, as different seed pans or flats transmit different amounts of
heat.
When sowing seeds a general rule is to cover them with soil 2 or 3 times
their thickness. Very small seeds, like coleus or tobacco, should be just

3
slightly covered or pressed into the surface. Small seeds may also be mixed
with sand to insure even distribution.
The soil for all seeds should be light and porous.
Seedlings should be transplanted after the second pair of true leaves
opens. Transplanting is preferably done on a cool cloudy day. The trans¬
plant should be shaded for several days.

Vegetative Propagation
Hardwood Cuttings: These are cuttings of dormant twigs or stems of
woody plants. Such a cutting is usually taken in fall or winter. There
should be 2 to 4 nodes or buds on the stem. This is inserted at an angle in
sand, peat moss, or a combination of the two, with only the top bud pro¬
jecting. It is then left in a cool place where it will not freeze, for the dura¬
tion of winter. During this time the lower end will heal over or callus. In
the spring, it is planted in a sandy soil where it will root readily, especially
if the lower buds are removed.
Greenwood Cuttings: These are cuttings made of shoots of plants that are
mature enough to break when bent sharply. These cuttings are rooted in¬
doors in sand, gravel, or sandy peat moss almost up to the lower leaves.
The lower leaves are often removed or cut to reduce the area exposed to
air and so prevent wilting. The cuttings should have some leaves, though,
as this will help them to root faster. They should be shaded and have
gentle bottom heat. Many herbaceous plants may be rooted in water.
When rooting this way never place the cuttings in more than 2 inches of
water, as deep water does not absorb enough oxygen for good root devel¬
opment. If the cutting wilts, clip the leaves in half to reduce surface area,
or place a jar upside down over it. Rootone, a rooting hormone, may be
used to hasten root growth. Plants from which cuttings are to be taken
should receive plenty of sunlight for several days before the cutting is
made. This builds up the sugar-energy storage and improves the success of
the cutting.

Root Cuttings: These may be taken from any plant that produces sprouts
from the roots. They are made from roots the thickness of a pencil to
V2 inch thick, and 3 to 5 inches long. They need not show buds as buds will
develop later. They are treated similarly to hardwood cuttings except that
in the spring they are placed horizontally in the soil and entirely covered
to a depth of 1 to 2 inches.

Ground Layering: This is a method of rooting shoots while they are still
attached to the parent plant. It is often used with plants whose cuttings
refuse to root. Select a low-growing branch that can be bent to the ground.
Make a slanting cut half-way through the branch at a point about 12 inches
from the end, and just below a joint. Then wedge it open with a pebble.
Bury the cut in about 4 inches of soil and anchor it with a stone. Stake up
the end of the branch so that it extends above the soil line. Keep the soil
moist, and carefully dig down to the cut every few months to check if
rooting has taken place. Once rooted, the branch may be severed from the
parent plant and grown like an ordinary cutting.

Air Layering: This is similar to ground layering but may be done with any
branch. Select a branch from pencil size up to one inch thick. Make a
slanting cut half-way through the branch. Wedge the cut open with a
matchstick and dust the cut lightly with rooting hormone. With thick

4
branches, a ring of bark should be removed instead of cutting the branch.
Surround it with a handful of damp peat moss and enclose it with plastic
wrap. Tie the wrap at both ends with wire tape. The peat moss should be
kept damp. Check it frequently during the summer. In a month or two
roots will form and the branch may be severed and treated like an ordinary
cutting.
Division: This is the process of dividing plants that have root stocks or
tubers, or which produce suckers (young plants rising from the base of the
older plants). This may be achieved by breaking up large clumps of plants
such as heliotrope, or cutting tubers or rootstocks into sections containing
buds, as is done with potatoes or hops. Division is usually performed dur¬
ing the dormant season.
Separation: This is a form of division. It is the process of separating bulb-
lets from the main bulb in the same way garlic is propagated, and setting
them out to be new plants.

CULTIVATION

When cultivating plants make sure that your soil has been well worked
and has been fertilized properly. The addition of humus, sand, or compost
assures a workable soil.
Start seedlings in flats and transplant when a few leaves have formed.
Transplanting is best done on an overcast, cool, cloudy or foggy day. Keep
the roots intact as much as possible and perform your repotting swiftly
and gently. Water thoroughly and shade the plant for a few days.
Do not overwater your plants. Water them thoroughly and deeply but
infrequently. The roots draw upon water 1 foot or more below the surface;
therefore the wetness of the soil’s surface is not important. I have found
that the most common cause of death among house plants is overwatering.
Volumes have been written on the basics of plant cultivation. Your
local library will have many good books on the subject.
* * *

Plants should be grown with joy in one’s heart and with calmness in
one’s actions. If you dislike your plants or the responsibility they repre¬
sent they will often refuse to grow.
If you like your plants and treat them as your friends, they will respond
favorably and not mind as much when you use them for your purposes.
In controlled experiments under laboratory conditions it has been demon¬
strated that plants react to people’s emotions. Plants that were treated
with affection grew faster and larger than those that were not.

PESTICIDES

The subject of pesticides is too involved to discuss here. A very good

pamphlet entitled Pesticides and Your Environment has been put out by
the National Wildlife Federation (see Suppliers). It tells sources of lady-
bugs, praying mantises, and lace wings (all beneficial insects), gives informa¬
tion on companion planting, and has lists of desirable and undesirable
pesticides.
This pamphlet suggests that nicotine sulfate not be used. This is due to
its highly poisonous nature, rather than because of any damage to the

5
environment. Otherwise this insecticide has the advantage that it evapo¬
rates completely, leaving no residue.
Isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol has been used as a spray, but it can “bum”
tender plants. If used it should be tested on a few leaves first. If the leaves
wither in a few days, another pesticide must be used.

□
BELLADONNA
Atropa belladonna L.; Nightshade family (Solanaceae)
A perennial branching herb growing to 5 feet tall, with 8-inch-long
ovate leaves. The leaves in first-year plants are larger than those of older
plants. The flowers are bell-shaped, blue-purple or dull red, followed by a
shiny, black or purple V^-inch berry. Native of Europe and Asia.

Cultivation and Propagation: Belladonna is hardy throughout the U.S.,

dying back in winter and rising from the root in spring. It prefers a well-
drained, well-limed soil in full sun or part shade. The soil should be kept
moist at all times. Plants exposed to too much sun will be stunted. In hot
sunny areas it may be grown between rows of beans to shade it.
Belladonna is most frequently propagated by seed, sown in flats in early
March. Because the seeds take 4-6 weeks to germinate, they should be
started early. When the seedlings are an inch or so high they may be set
out 18 inches apart. The seedlings should be well watered just after trans¬
planting, and shaded for several days. First-year plants will grow only IV2
feet high and will flower in September. At this time the leaves and tops
may be collected, but the plants should not be entirely stripped. The
plants should be thinned to 2V2-3 feet apart at the approach of winter, or
overcrowding will occur the second year. In June of the second year the
plants may be cut to one inch above the ground when they are in flower.
In good years a second crop will be ready for harvesting in September. The
roots may be harvested in the autumn of the fourth year, and new plants
set in their places. Belladonna may also be propagated by cuttings of the
green branch tips.
I have found that snails, aphids, and white flies are among this plant’s
worst enemies.
Small children are much more susceptible to belladonna poisoning than
adults, and should be kept away from it.

Harvesting: The parts harvested as described above should be dried quickly

in the sun. Wilted or discolored leaves may be discarded, as they contain
only small amounts of alkaloids.

BETEL NUT
Areca catechu L.; Palm family (Palmaceae)

A very slender, graceful palm growing up to 100 feet tall but with a
trunk only 6 inches in diameter. This is topped by a crown of 3-6-foot-
long leaves that are divided into many leaflets. The fruits are the size and
shape of a hen’s egg and are yellowish to scarlet with a fibrous covering.
Native to Malaysia.

Cultivation and Propagation: May be grown out of doors in California and

Florida; must be grown in the greenhouse elsewhere. Young plants do well

6
in a mixture of equal parts leaf-mold or peat and loam. Older plants prefer
loam and sand. Water at least every other day. If grown in the greenhouse,
the temperature should be around 80° F. during the day and about 60° F.
at night.

Harvesting: Betel nuts should be harvested when the fruits are ripe. The
acom-sized nut is removed and washed free of pulp. An adult tree may
produce 250 nuts per year.

THE BROOMS
Bean family (Leguminosae)
There is some confusion as to which is the most potent of the three
species of brooms used for their psychotropic effects. According to the
paper first reporting the discovery of the effects of these plants, the blos¬
soms of Canary Island broom were the “most pleasant and effective’’ of
the three. This is also the species used by Yaqui shamans. Some herbals
claim that Spanish broom tops are five times as strong as Scotch broom,
while other sources claim that the alkaloid content of the Scotch broom
is higher than that of the other two. To clarify (or confuse) the issue, it
has been found that alkaloid content varies with environment.
Canary Island Broom (Cytisus canariensis L., formerly Genista canariensis).
A much-branched shrub to 6 feet tall with hairy branches, covered with
bright green leaves divided into 3 leaflets. This is the only broom of the
three that keeps its leaves through the year. It flowers from May to July,
and is covered with many bright yellow blossoms in short racemes. It is
damaged at 15° F. but it recovers quickly. Native to the Canary Islands.
Scotch Broom (Cytisus scoparius L.). A shrub to 10 feet with many erect,
slender, almost leafless branches. The flowers are yellow, 3/i-inch long, and
bloom from March to June. Native to central and southern Europe; natu¬
ralized in California and found sparingly in the East.
Spanish Broom (Spartium junceum L.). A shrub to 10 feet high with slen¬
der green branches and bearing a few small leaves. The flowers are yellow,
1 inch long, and fragrant, followed by 4-inch-long pods. Blooms from June
to September in most of the U.S. In California it flowers most of the year.
Native to the Mediterranean region.
Cultivation and Propagation: The brooms need a well-drained soil and full
sun. They often naturalize on dry, rocky slopes in the west. Scotch and
Spanish broom are hardy everywhere except in the most northern states,
while Canary Island broom is hardy only in the west and south. All are
very drought resistant.
Brooms are easily propagated by seeds, cuttings, and layers. Seeds may
be started as early as January. They should be nicked and soaked until
swollen before sowing. Seedlings should be transplanted carefully when
young; they transplant well when older. Plants grown from seed will flower
1 year from sowing. Cuttings should be young growth taken with a heel in
early spring or August and September. They should be rooted in sandy
soil. When grown as a pot or tub plant, they should be pruned after flower¬
ing. They should be left outdoors from early spring until light frost in the
fall. Brooms are subject to attack by the genista worm in southern Cali¬
fornia. These are difficult to control except with DDT.

7
Harvesting: Broom plants grown in full sun have a higher alkaloid content
than those grown in the shade. The flowers should be gathered, aged in a
sealed jar for 10 days, and dried at a low heat. The aging greatly reduces
the harshness of the smoke. The active flowering tops may be gathered in
May and dried without aging. Any material from pruning may also be used.

CABEZA DE ANGEL
Calliandra anomala (Kunth) Macbride; Bean family (Leguminosae)
A shrub or small tree 3 to 14 feet high, with 3- to 6-inch-long feathery
compound leaves, and long purple-red mimosa-like flowers. Native to
Mexico and Guatemala.
Cultivation and Propagation: It may be grown out of doors in California
and the South, and in the greenhouse in the North. It needs plenty of
water and sunshine and will do well in a good garden soil. If grown indoors
it should be pruned after blooming and set out of doors for the summer.
Propagation is by seeds, which may require nicking and soaking before
germination will take place. When seeds are not available it may be propa¬
gated by cuttings taken with a heel and planted in sand over bottom heat.
Harvesting: Incisions are made in the bark in the early morning and the
exuding resin is collected after several days, dried and pulverized. The in¬
cisions should be shallow and narrow so that they will heal quickly. Take
care not to cut too deep as this may permanently damage the plant.

CALAMUS
Acorus calamus L.; Arum family (Araceae)
A vigorous perennial herb growing up to 6 feet tall, composed of many
long, slender, grass-like leaves up to %-inch wide rising from a horizontal
rootstock. The flowers are minute and greenish-yellow in color, occurring
on a 4-inch long spike resembling a finger. The fruit is berry-like. Native to
eastern North America, Europe and Asia.

Cultivation and Propagation: Calamus is hardy throughout the U.S. and

much of Canada. It thrives best in a rich soil, but can be grown in shallow
water of on dry land. It is propagated by division of the rootstock in spring
or fall. Pieces of the rhizome should be planted horizontally, an inch or
two deep, a foot apart in each direction, with the leaf-shoots upward.
They can be planted in marshes and at the edges of ponds and streams.
They will do well in the garden if the soil is rich and is kept moist by fre¬
quent waterings. Formerly it was maintained that calamus would not
flower unless its roots were subjerged in water. This author, however, has
seen many exceptions to this belief.

Harvesting: I he rhizomes snould be collected when 2-3 years old in early

spring, before new growth, or in the late autumn. The leaves and rootlets
should be removed and the rhizomes washed thoroughly. They should be
dried without the application of heat. Upon drying, the rhizomes lose 70
to 75 percent of their weight, but improve in flavor and aroma. They
should be stored in a cool dry place, as calamus deteriorates with age,
heat and moisture. Also dried roots are often eaten by worms or small
boring beetles. After a year or so of storage the roots have lost much of
their active principle.

8
 CALIFORNIA POPPY
Eschscholzia californica Cham.; Poppy family (Papaveraceae)
A perennial herb to 2 feet tall (usually less in the wild) with bluish-
green, finely divided leaves. The flowers open in the sunshine, are up to 4
inches across, and are on long stalks. On wild plants, the flowers are
4-petaled and orange-yellow, but there are many horticultural varieties.
It blooms from July 1st to October the first year, and again each April in
areas where it grows as a perennial. The fruit is a thin, ribbed capsule 3-4
inches long. Native to California and Oregon; naturalized in Europe.
Cultivation and Propagation: The California poppy is grown as an annual
in cold-winter areas, and as a perennial in California and the South. The
seeds should be sown where the plants are to stand, as they don’t trans¬
plant well. They should be sown as early as weather permits. The plants
like a sunny exposure and do well on hillsides and dry, rocky places. In the
garden the seedlings should be thinned so that the plants will stand 6-8
inches apart. They stand considerable cold and will continue to bloom
after the first frosts. In cold areas, if the roots are protected, the plant
will live over winter and bloom the following spring.
Harvesting: The outer leaves may be picked and dried at any time. The
flowers may be removed and seed capsules may be picked when unripe
and dried with the leaves. In autumn the plants should be cut off at the
ground and dried before they begin to wilt from the cold.
Note: The California poppy is the state flower of California and is pro¬
tected by a state law which provides stiff fines for people caught picking
or mutilating it. This law is not to keep people from getting high. It is to
protect the poppy, which is rapidly becoming wiped out by road construc¬
tion and land development.
The seeds are cheap and the plant easy to grow. If you plan on using
this poppy, please grow your own. Home-grown poppies are not subject to
the law.

CATNIP
Nepeta cataria L.; Mint family (Labiatae)
A hardy, upright, perennial herb with sturdy stems bearing hairy, heart-
shaped, grayish-green leaves. The flowers are white or lilac, lA inch long,
and occur in several clusters toward the tips of the branches. Native of
Eurasia, naturalized in North America.

Cultivation and Propagation: It is easily cultivated in any garden soil, with

little care, as the plant does not require the moisture that most mint plants
need. Plants should be grown from seed sown where they are going to
stand. Bruised or recently transplanted plants are likely to be eaten by
cats unless protected. The seed should be sown very thinly in rows 20
inches apart and the seedlings thinned out to 20 inches apart in the rows.
It requires almost no care except occasional weeding. A bed will last
several years. It can also be propagated by division of the roots in spring.
Harvesting: The herb is harvested just before flowering in middle to late
summer on a dry sunny day and in late morning when all dew is gone. Dry¬
ing should be done carefully. The leaves are stripped from the stems and
dried as quickly as possible with good ventilation out of direct sunlight, or
in an oven at 150°F. to avoid losing much volatile oil.

9
 CHICALOTE; PRICKLY POPPY
Argemone mexicana L.; Poppy family (Papaveraceae)

An annual herb 1 to 3 feet high with prickly stems, leaves and capsules.
The flowers are yellow or orange, up to 2lA inches across, and followed by
an oblong seed capsule. The leaves are white-veined and 4 to 6 inches long.
Native to tropical America but naturalized in the southeastern U.S.
Cultivation and Propagation: Although generally grown as an annual, this
poppy is sometimes a biennial or perennial. It prefers a light soil but it
will do well in most soils if given a full sunny exposure. It is propagated by
seeds sown in early spring. The seedlings like most poppies dislike trans¬
planting, so the seeds are usually sown where they are to stand. However,
they may be sown in pots and, if replanted outside without disturbing the
roots, they will do well. It blooms in late summer and reseeds itself readily.
Harvesting: The unripe capsules may be incised in the same manner as
opium poppies and an opium-like substitute obtained. However, the stout
prickles which cover the capsule make this difficult. The seed may be har¬
vested by keeping a close watch on the capsules and removing them when
they first begin to open, before the seeds spill out.

COLEUS
Mint family (Labiatae)

Two species of Coleus are used as hallucinogens; both are cultivated in

the U.S. They are:
Coleus blumei Benth. This is the common cultivated coleus. A tender per¬
ennial herb usually not exceeding 3 feet in height. The leaves are ovate,
pointed, 4 inches or more long, edged with rounded teeth. They are
mottled with red, green, yellow and purple. The flowers are dark blue or
whitish, in a terminal spike. Native to Java. Naturalized throughout the
tropics. A common house plant in the U.S.
C. pumilus. A low herb with lax stems which lie on the ground and root at
the lower joints, or hang over the sides of the pot. The leaves are smaller
than those of C. blumei, usually not exceeding 2 inches long. The flowers
are in long racemes. Native to the Philippines.
Cultivation and Propagation: Coleus does best in strong, indirect light in a
warm, rich, loose, well-drained soil with ample water.
Coleus seeds should be started indoors in flats of fine soil covered with
a pane of glass or a sheet of plastic wrap. The seeds should be sown thinly
and covered with a thin layer of soil. With bottom heat they will come up
within 2 weeks. When large enough to handle the seedlings should be trans¬
planted to pots. When all danger of frost is past the plants may be set out
in the garden.
Few plants root more easily than coleus. Cuttings may be taken at any
time of the year and rooted in shallow water.
Coleus plants should be fed regularly with a high nitrogen fertilizer to
stimulate foliage growth. Mealy-bugs and aphids are its worst enemies;
slugs and snails attack it in the garden.

Harvesting: All parts of the plant are psychoactive, but only the leaves and
flowering tops should be used, as new leaves will grow to replace them.
Flowering tops should be picked off before they seed, as they seriously

10
sap the energy of the rest of the plant. These may be stored in the freezer
along with fresh leaves that have fallen off until there are enough for a
dose. Dried leaves do not seem to have any effect. When picking fresh
leaves it is best to remove the lower leaves and take cuttings from the
branch tips. Some leaves should be left on the base of the plant to give it
energy to send out new shoots.

COLORINES
Erythrina flabelliformis Kearny; Bean family (Leguminosae)
A shrub or small tree growing up to 10 feet high with spiny branches
and leaves composed of fan-shaped leaflets. The flowers are bright scarlet,
in short crowded racemes. The pods are up to 1 foot long, containing
bright scarlet oval seeds. Native to southern Arizona, New Mexico, and
Mexico.
Cultivation and Propagation: This erythrina may be grown outside in Cali¬
fornia and Florida, but must be grown in the greenhouse in cold-winter
areas. It prefers a well-drained soil and full sun, and likes frequent water¬
ings but will stand considerable drought.
Propagated by seeds which need nicking and soaking, and by cuttings
of growing wood.
Harvesting: When the ripe pods begin to open in the fall they may be gath¬
ered and the seeds removed.

DAMIANA
Turnera diffusa; Turnera family (Turneraceae)
A small shrub with smooth inch-long, pale green leaves which have
dense hairs on the underside. The flowers are yellow, rising from the leaf
axils, followed by a one-celled capsule, which splits into 3 pieces. Native to
the Southwest and Mexico.
Cultivation and Propagation: Damiana may be planted outdoors in the
South and West, or in the greenhouse in the North. It thrives in any good
soil if given a sunny location. It should be watered freely from spring to
fall, and sparingly in winter. In the greenhouse the temperature should
stand around 55° at night. Damiana is propagated by seeds and cuttings.
Harvesting: The leaves and tops are harvested while the plant is in flower.
As some of the active principle is volatile, the tops are preferably dried in
the shade, without the application of heat.

DATURAS
Nightshade family (Solanaceae)
This genus has 15 to 20 species ranging from annual and perennial herbs
to shrubs and trees, with trumpet-shaped flowers. All of these are halluci¬
nogenic.

Herbaceous Daturas
Datura fastuosa L., formerly D. metel. An annual herb, 4 to 5 feet tall,
ovate 7- to 8-inch leaves. The flower is 7 inches long, white inside,
violet and yellowish outside, with a purple calyx. The fruit is a 1 ^-inch-
diameter spiny capsule. There are also double-flowered and blue-, red-, and

11
yellow-flowered varieties. Native to India and naturalized in the tropics of
both hemispheres.
D. inoxia Mill. A low-growing, spreading perennial with hairy 2- to 4-inch
leaves. The flowers are white, 6 to 7 inches long, 10-lobed. The fruit is
spiny, 2 inches or more in diameter. Native to Mexico and the Southwest.
Similar to D. meteloides. The seeds take up to several weeks to germinate.
Cultivated as an annual in the North.
D. meteloides DC. An erect perennial herb with 2- to 5-inch leaves. The
flowers are white, 8 inches long, often tinged with rose or violet, fragrant.
The capsule is intensely spiny, 2 inches in diameter. Native to the South¬
west and Mexico. The seeds take 3 to 5 weeks to sprout and should be
started in damp peat moss. Do not pre-soak the seeds. Plants should be
spaced 3 to 4 feet apart. Cultivated as an annual in the north.

D. stramonium L. “Jimson weed.” A green-stemmed, hairless annual, 2 to

4 feet tall, with few branches and 2- to 8-inch-long ovate leaves. The flow¬
ers are white, 4 inches long. The capsule is egg-shaped, to 2 inches long,
filled with many black seeds. In D. stramonium var. tatula the flower is
violet-purple or lavender; the stems are purple. Naturalized throughout the
world. They are easily grown from seeds, which sprout quickly even with¬
out bottom heat. Does well in rich soil in a dry, sunny location. May be
sown in the open in May in mounds 18 inches apart with four seeds in
each month. Thin out all but the healthiest plant after sprouting.
D. chlorantha Hook. A hairless, perennial shrub, occasionally reaching 10
feet tall, with almost triangular, wavy-margined leaves. The flowers are
yellow, drooping, followed by a prickly capsule. This is not a true tree
datura although it occasionally reaches similar heights. Generally grown as
a tall annual.

Cultivation and Propagation: The herbaceous daturas are generally grown

from seeds in early spring. They should be started in flats indoors in the
North, or where they are to stand in warmer areas. The perennial kinds
usually rise from thick tuberous roots. In the North these may be dug in
autumn and stored in semi-dry peat moss, sawdust, or sand in a cool place
until spring. These daturas generally prefer loose, sandy soils, somewhat on
the dry side, and a sunny location. Those native to the Southwest will
stand considerable drought.

Harvesting: The leaves and tops are preferably harvested when the plants
are in full bloom, but they may be gathered at any time from the appear¬
ance of flowers until frost. They should be stripped from the stem and
dried as quickly as possible. Fresh leaves have a fetid odor, which is lost on
drying. Seeds harvested for psychoactive purposes are collected by remov¬
ing the capsules when they are ripe, but are still green and unopened.
These are dried in the sun or by low heat. Seed for growing purposes
should be gathered by collecting capsules that are just opening, removing
the seeds and drying in the sun.

Tree Daturas

Datura arborea L. A small tree, growing to 10 feet tall with 8-inch-long

soft hairy leaves in pairs. The margins are smooth and never wavy. The
flowers are musky-scented, white, veined with green, 6 to 9 inches long,
and hanging. The calyx splits.down one side. The fruit is spineless, 2V2

12
inches long. Native to Peru and Chile. May be distinguished from D. Can¬
dida. by the length of the flowers and leaves.

D. Candida (Pers.) Pasq. A small tree growing 10 to 12 feet tall with 16-
inch-long, ovate, downy leaves. The flowers are white, musky-scented,
hanging, and about 10 inches long. The calyx splits down one side. The
fruit is smooth, 2Vz inches long. Native to tropical America. May be dis¬
tinguished from D. arborea by the extreme length of the leaves and from
D. suaveolens by the calyx and the leaves. Cuttings root slowly.
D. suaveolens Humb. 8c Bonpl. A small tree, 10 to 15 feet high, with ovate
6- to 12-inch-long leaves, only slightly hairy. The flowers are white nerved
with green, hanging, 9 to 12 inches long. The calyx is inflated, with 5 ob¬
scure teeth. The fruit is smooth, spindle-shaped, 5 inches long. Native to
Brazil. May be distinguished from D. arborea and D. Candida by the
5-toothed calyx.

D. sanguinea Kuiz. 8c Par. “Huanto.” A small tree, 4 to 12 feet tall, with

7- inch-long ovate leaves, shining green on the upper side. The flowers are
8 to 10 inches long, drooping, brilliant orange-red with yellow veins, not
fragrant. The fruit is top-shaped, spineless, 3V2 inches long. Native to Peru.
Distinguished from all others by the red flowers. Rare; cuttings are almost
impossible to take. Prefers cool areas.

Cultivation and Propagation: The tree daturas may be grown outdoors in

California and the South or as tub plants in the North. They may be propa¬
gated by seed when available. Bottom heat greatly speeds up germination.
Young plants should be watered frequently until tub-plant size. They need
a rich, well-drained soil and a large tub. A large root-system is required for
good bloom. In the summer they should be watered once a week with
liquid fertilizer. In cold-winter areas, tub plants may be kept outdoors in
summer and wintered-over in a cellar or similar place, as they require little
moisture and light while dormant. When planted outdoors they should be
sheltered from wind. Except for D. sanguinea, they may also be propa¬
gated by cuttings taken with heels, which root easily in water. D. san¬
guinea is the hardiest of the four.
Harvesting: The leaves may be harvested at any time, but you should leave
enough for good growth. Most rarely set seed; when they do, the capsules
should be gathered when ripe, and the seeds dried in the sun.

DONANA
Coryphantha macromeris (Engl.) Lem.; Cactus family (Cactaceae)
A low cylindrical cactus to 8 inches tall, branching at the base, covered
with several inch-long, soft, spine-tipped tubercles. The flowers are purple,
5 inches across. Native to Mexico and West Texas.

Cultivation and Propagation: Donana may be grown outdoors in the West

and South or as a pot plant in the North. It may be cultivated in the same
manner as San Pedro except that it is thinner-skinned and more subject to
mealy-bugs and scale insects. Donana also makes small offsets at the end
of the lower tubercles. When these reach the size of a nickle they may be
removed and rooted.

Harvesting: Always leave a part of the plant with several tubercles intact
so it may grow new plants. To reduce bulk, cactus material may be sliced
thinly and dried quickly in the sun or at a low heat.

13
 FENNEL
Foeniculum vulgare Mill; Carrot family (Umbelliferae)

A perennial herb growing to 5 feet high, with blue-green stems and

leaves. The leaves are finely divided into threadlike leaflets. The flower
cluster is a large umbel, composed of several hundred yellow flowers. Na¬
tive of southern Europe; naturalized in western U.S.

Cultivation and Propagation: Fennel is grown as an annual or biennial in

cold-winter areas. Grow in a light, well-drained soil in full sun. The seed
should be sown in early spring where the plants are to stand, and the seed¬
lings thinned to 1 foot apart.

Harvesting: The ripe seeds are the source of the psychotropic oil. These
should be gathered when they are dry and have turned a yellowish-brown
color. The young leaves may be used in salads and fish dishes. Older leaves
are fragrant but tough.

HAWAIIAN BABY WOODROSE

Argyreia nervosa Bojer.; Morning Glory family (Convolvulaceae)
A large perennial climbing vine with heart-shaped leaves up to 1 foot
across, backed with silvery hairs. The flowers are 2 to 3 inches long, rose-
colored, on 6-inch stalks. Pods dry to a smooth, dark brown, filbert-sized
capsule containing 1 to 4 furry brown seeds. The capsule is surrounded by
a dry calyx divided into 5 petal-like sections. Native to Asia; naturalized
and cultivated in Hawaii.

Cultivation and Propagation: It may be grown outdoors in southern Cali¬

fornia and Florida. Elsewhere it should be grown in a large pot or tub out¬
doors in the summer, brought indoors in winter. It may be propagated by
cuttings or seeds, and in the spring by division. The seed may be sprouted
by making a small nick in the seedcoat away from the germ eye. Soak the
seed until it swells. Plant V2-inch deep in loose rich soil. Do not use bottom
heat. After the cotyledons appear, water sparingly, letting the soil surface
dry out to a depth of Vi inch. Over-watering causes stem and root rot. The
plant grows slowly until it develops a half-dozen leaves; after this it grows
quickly. In its first year this plant grows into a small bush 1 to 2 feet tall.
During this time it may be grown in a large pot and kept indoors in winter.
The next spring it will grow into a very large vine and should produce
flowers and seeds. In this second year it should be planted out, or grown
in a tub. In cold-winter areas the roots should be lifted and stored or the
tub kept in a cool place until spring.
The methods of increasing the alkaloid content of morning glories
(which see) may be applied to this vine.

Harvesting: The seed pods should be harvested when thoroughly dry. They
should be stored in a cool, dry place. Their potency may begin to decrease
after 6-9 months.

HAWAIIAN WOODROSE
Merremia tuberosa; Morning Glory family (Convolvulaceae)
A slender perennial vine with leaves divided into 5 to 7 narrow lobes.
The flowers are yellow, followed by a smooth round capsule, surrounded
by 5 petal-like sepals. Native to Asia; naturalized and cultivated in Hawaii.

14
Cultivation and Propagation: The large woodrose may be grown outdoors
in southern California and the South. The seed of the large woodrose must
be nicked well before it will grow. Cut a nick in the seed coat with a hack¬
saw, or cut the small end of the seed off. Soak for 24 hours or until it
swells. Then place the seed in a bowl or cup of damp peat moss, cover it
with plastic wrap, and put it over the pilot light of your stove, or any¬
where that maintains a temperature of 80°F.or more. Ordinary bottom
heat usually isn’t warm enough. Check every few days until it sprouts in
4 to 10 days. Once sprouted plant in a 3- to 4-inch pot if grown indoors,
or start seed in May if to be grown outdoors. Place the pot in a large sunny
window and give the vine something to twine around. I have seen these
these vines grow one foot or more per week. It is very easy to grow after
sprouting. It can take little or much watering and much abuse. The vine
will flower the second and subsequent years.

Harvesting: The pods may be harvested when they are thoroughly dry. Its
storage properties are the same as those of the baby woodrose.

HELIOTROPE
Valeriana officinalis L.; Valerian family (Valerianaceae)
Perennial herb 2-5 feet high with pinnately divided leaves and clusters
of small whitish, pinkish, or lavender flowers. Very fragrant. Native of
Europe and N. Asia; naturalized in North America.

Cultivation and Propagation: It is easily grown from seed sown 1/16 inch
deep in light, sandy soil. It may also be propagated by division of the root-
stock in spring. It spreads itself rapidly by suckers rising from the roots.

Harvesting: Flowering tops should be cut off to make the roots develop
more. In September or October the tops should be cut completely and the
large root crowns dug, washed, and dried.

HENBANE
Hyoscyamus niger L. Nightshade family (Solanaceae)
An annual or biennial herb, to feet high, with hairy, 3- to 8-inch-
long leaves. The flowers are 1 inch across, greenish yellow with purple
veins; they grow in spikes from June to September. The seed capsule is
filled with many pitted seeds. Naturalized infrequently across southern
Canada and the northern U.S.

Cultivation and Propagation: Henbane does well in most soils, as it is

found wild in dry waste places. It is propagated easily by seed. Henbane
seed is very viable. I have sprouted seeds collected from a capsule on a
plant that had gone through a winter’s rain and hard frost and had almost
deteriorated away, and got 90 percent germination. The seed should be
planted in May or when the weather is in the 70’s. It should be sown very
thinly in rows 2 to 3 feet apart. The bed should be kept moist until sprout¬
ing, and the seedlings should be thinned to IV2 to 2 feet apart in the row.
They may also be sown in flats at room temperature and transplanted out
on a cool day. Henbane is sometimes attacked by potato pests and will
occasionally mildew like tomato plants.

Harvesting: Henbane leaves and tops should be collected when the plant is
in full flower. This is usually in June, July, or sometimes August. The

15
leaves should be dried quickly in the sun, as it will lose its properties if
kept in a damp state too long. The herb will lose approximately 80 per¬
cent of its weight in drying. Fresh henbane leaves have a fetid odor when
handled, which they lose upon drying. The seed is up to ten times as
strong as the leaves. The capsules may be gathered in August, before they
open. The seeds are shaken out and dried in the sun if to be used for grow¬
ing purposes, or dried quickly at a low heat if to be used psychoactively.

HOPS
Humulus lupulus L.; Hemp family (Cannabinaceae)
A perennial twining vine growing from 15 to 30 feet long with oval 3-
to 5-lobed leaves having coarsely toothed edges. Male and female flowers
occur on separate plants. Native to Eurasia.

Cultivation and Propagation: Seed Propagation: Hops seed is the type of

seed with a dormant embryo, as many tree and wild plant seeds have.
Many people’s failure to sprout hops seed is due not to the unviability of
the seed, but to the fact that they have taken no steps to break the dor¬
mancy of the embryo before sowing.
To break this dormancy first place your seeds in a glass of water. You
will notice that most of the seeds will float and a few will sink. The seeds
which float are viable and should be skimmed off and placed in another
container of water. The material which sinks should be discarded, as it
consists of broken seeds, dead material, and other debris. Soak the floating
seeds for 24 to 40 hours. During this time many of the seeds will sink.
Take all of the seeds and mix them with damp peat moss in a plastic sand¬
wich bag. Close and seal it and place it in your refrigerator for 5 to 6
weeks. At the end of this time take the bag out and keep it at room tem¬
perature. The peat moss may be placed in a shallow container covered with
plastic wrap. Sift through the peat moss-seed mixture every day, looking
for sprouted seed. Do not let the peat moss dry out. The seeds can germi¬
nate anytime after 24 hours out of the refrigerator, but usually the first
sprouts will be found on the third or fourth day. More will continue to
germinate each day for 10 to 21 days. A few may sprout as late as 4 weeks.
The sprouts should be removed and planted root down in loose, rich, well-
drained soil. From germination until a few true leaves form, hops sprouts
are very sensitive to over-watering. Keep the soil slightly on the dry side.
While the peat moss is in the refrigerator and afterwards, you may notice
some white mold forming. Don’t worry about this. It only feeds on dead
matter, not on viable seeds. When storing seeds keep from moisture and
heat as these destroy viability. I know of only one source of viable hops
seeds: the Redwood City Seed Company (see Sources). The above method
of germination was developed by this company and has been reprinted by
its kind permission.

Rhizome Cultivation: Hops are propagated world-wide by rhizomes, but

are rarely available to the general public as a result of the U.S. federal
government’s attempts to stop their possible abuse as material grafted onto
marijuana stocks. However, they are still available from Wine and the Peo¬
ple (see Sources). Propagating hops by rhizomes has the advantage over
seeds in that they will sprout sooner after planting if the weather is warm.
However, they have serious disadvantages. Propagation by cuttings for too
long limits the genetic bank of the plant. Thus the plant eventually ceases

16
to produce seed and comes to an evolutionary dead end, because without
seed natural mutations cannot occur. The plant then becomes totally de¬
pendent on man for its survival. All of the hops grown commercially in
this country are seedless hybrids (all polyploid hops are sterile). Hybrid
plants are often more susceptible to disease, although more vigorous grow¬
ing than ordinary plants. Molds, viruses and insects that attack hops plants
continue to mutate and evolve stronger strains freely, while seedless hops
are not able to mutate resistant strains, thus decreasing the survival poten¬
tial of the hybrid. With the standardization of the beer-making industry
across the world the last remaining areas that grow seeded hops are rapidly
being forced to grow only seedless hybrids. If you wish to use roots, the
cuttings should be planted horizontally with the buds upwards, 2 inches
deep in a well-worked, rich loamy soil. Hops may also be propagated by
layering. The lower part of the vine is laid on the ground and covered with
soil. This will root and may be used for cuttings in winter. Hops is also
propagated by cuttings of the shoots and branches. Each hops plant should
be given a space 18 feet tall to climb.

Harvesting: When harvesting hops that has been grafted to hemp, the
whole plant may be used. The cones should be harvested when ripe in late
July or early August. They should be dried quickly, soon after harvesting,
in the sun or in the oven at a low heat (140°-160° F.). If this is not done
they will deteriorate rapidly after picking. When harvesting hops that have
been grafted to cannabis both cones and leaves may be used. The same
drying rules apply to these.

HYDRANGEA
Hydrangea paniculata Sieb. var. grandiflora
Saxifrage family (Saxifragaceae)

This is the commonest hardy hydrangea in cultivation. It is a tree-like

shrub 8 to 30 feet high, with 3-5-inch-long oval leaves. The flowers are
whitish, in dense clusters 8 to 15 inches long. The flowers sometimes
change to pink and purple with age. Native to China and Japan. A com¬
mon garden plant in the U.S.

Cultivation and Propagation: Hardy everywhere except north central U.S.

(Montana, North Dakota, and Minnesota), but can be grown in sheltered
places there. Hydrangeas bloom best in full sun, but will .do well in partial
shade.
They are best propagated by cuttings of green growth in June. The cut¬
tings should be the ends of non-flowering shoots and should have 2-3
pairs of leaves. The bottom pair of leaves should be removed and the stem
cut just below a joint. They should be placed in moist sand in a shady
place.
Seeds are uncommon but when available should be sown in a sandy,
peaty soil in spring in a greenhouse or sheltered place.
Hydrangeas can be transplanted easily. The color of the blossoms may
be altered by the addition of certain minerals to the soil. Special solutions
for this purpose are available at many nurseries.

Harvesting: Leaves can be harvested at any time. A single small bush will
provide large quantities of leaves and flowers when pruned in the fall.

17
 IOCHROMA
Nightshade family (Solanaceae)

Iochroma is a genus of tropical shrubs or small trees with tubular flow¬

ers, several species of which are cultivated in the U.S.

Iochroma coccineum Schow. A shrub with hairy branches and oblong

leaves. The flowers are 2 inches long, scarlet, and in drooping clusters.
Native to Central America.

I. fuchsioides Miers. A shrub with narrow, almost hairless leaves, and IV2-
inch-long orange-scarlet flowers in drooping clusters. Native to Peru.

/. lanceolatum Miers. A shrub growing to 8 feet tall with hairy, ovate to

narrow leaves. The flowers are 2 inches long, purple-blue. Native to Ecua¬
dor.

1. tubulosum Benth. A hairy shrub, 6 to 8 feet high, with ovate leaves and
deep blue lV^-inch-long flowers in drooping clusters. Native to Colombia.

Cultivation and Propagation: Iochroma may be grown outdoors in Cali¬

fornia and the South, but must be grown indoors in the North. Propagated
by seeds when available; or by cuttings, preferably taken in February or
early March. Cuttings take several weeks to root.

Harvesting: Leaves may be picked and dried any time there is sufficient
growth to replace them. Harvesting should be stopped in the winter when
growth is slow or halted. Flowers may be dried as they begin to wilt.

KAVA KAVA
Piper methysticum Forst.; Pepper family (Piperaceae)

A perennial, soft-wooded shrub growing 8 to 10 feet tall, with 8-inch

ovate to heart-shaped leaves. The flower spikes are opposite the leaves;
male and female flowers occur on separate plants. Native to the Pacific
Islands.

Cultivation and Propagation: In the Pacific Islands kava does best in the
cool, moist highlands up to 1000 feet above sea level where the daytime
summer temperatures are between 80° and 90°. It may be grown in south¬
ern Florida, but elsewhere it requires greenhouse temperatures. It prefers a
loose, rich soil with good drainage and frequent watering. It does well on
stony ground. The best crops are grown on virgin soil. If two consecutive
crops are raised on the same soil the second crop will be poor. The plant
rarely produces seeds and is generally propagated by cuttings of the firm
wood. These are susceptible to fungus diseases because of the high humidi¬
ty the plant requires. Plants should be spaced about 6 feet apart either
way. This furnishes about 1200 plants per acre. Kava makes a good house
plant.

Harvesting: The main rootstock begins just below the surface of the
ground and continues for two feet or more. It gets to be 3-5 inches thick
after 2V2-4 years growth, and may weigh 12-16 lb. From it radiate many
tough roots. Rootstocks usually reach maximum growth at about 6 years,
but the older the plant the more potent it will be. These may be dug and
used fresh or dried in the sun. The lower stems are also active. Before dry¬
ing the rootstocks and lower stems should be scraped of their outer coat¬
ing and cut into pieces weighing V2-H/2 oz. each. Drying reduces weight to

18
about 1/5. The tough radiating roots may be dug and used fresh at any
time but the plant should be given time to generate new roots.
For further information on the botany, chemistry, history and uses of
kava see Kava Kava: The Famous Drug Plant of the South Sea Islands,
by Dr. E. F. Steinmetz, also published by the Twentieth Century Alche¬
mist.

KHAT
Catha edulis Forsk.; Burning Bush family (Celastraceae)
An evergreen shrub or tree to 10 feet tall, with oval, 4-inch-long leaves.
The flowers are small, white, and 5-petaled. The fruit is an oblong 3-angled
capsule containing 1 to 3 seeds. Native from Abyssinia to South Africa.

Cultivation and Propagation: Khat may be grown outdoors in Florida and

California, and as a greenhouse plant in the North. It needs fast drainage
and does poorly in a rich moist soil. Does best in hot areas in poor dry
soil. Propagated by cuttings taken in spring or, more effectively, by layer¬
ing. Khat rarely sets seed in this country. It should be pinched or pruned
to keep it compact, and to produce more buds.

Harvesting: The buds, branch tips and young leaves from pruning may be
used fresh or dried. Do not harvest too often or cut the branch tips too far
back, as this may destroy active buds and destroy new growth.

LION'S TAIL
Leonotis leonurus R. Br.; Mint family (Labiatae)
A shrubby, branching perennial 3 to 6 feet high with 2- to 5-inch-long
hairy toothed leaves. The tubular flowers are 2 inches long, bright red,
yellow, or orange-red, and bloom in late spring and autumn. Native to
Africa.

Cultivation and Propagation: Leonotis may be planted outdoors in Cali¬

fornia and the South; it may be grown as an annual in the North, or
brought into the greenhouse during winter. It should be planted in full
sun, as it will not flower in the shade. It prefers a dry soil and is drought-
resistant. Water deeply and infrequently.
Leonotis may be propagated by seeds sown indoors from January to
February. Cuttings root easily at any time of the year. For good-sized
plants, cuttings should be taken in the early spring.

Harvesting: The leaves and flowers are smoked for their cannabis-like
effects. These parts may be gathered at any time and dried quickly. Harvest
no more than one-third of the leaves at one time. Let the plant grow and
fill out for at least a month before harvesting again. In Africa a resm is
gathered from the leaves. Plants grown in less torrid climates do not tend
to exude this resin. Such leaves can be smoked, however, or subjected to
alcohol extraction.

LOBELIA
Lobelia inf lata L.; Lobelia family (Lobeliaceae)
An herbaceous annual growing to 3 feet high with hairy, ovate leaves.
The flowers are *4-inch long, light blue or whitish, followed by an inflated
seed capsule. Native from Labrador south to Georgia and Arkansas.

19
Cultivation and Propagation: Lobelia is best propagated from seed sown in
January or early February in flats of fine soil. The seeds are very small, and
difficult to sow thinly enough. They may be mixed with fine sand or with
herbal (non-viable) seed. The seedlings should be transplanted to pots ,
when large enough to handle, and set outdoors in early June. It will do
well in ordinary garden soil if given a cool, shady location. In hot areas it
will stop flowering in mid-summer. Plants may be lifted in fall, kept over
winter, and new plants started from cuttings of these taken in January or
February.

Harvesting: The leaves and tops should be harvested in August and Sep¬
tember. The seeds are the most potent part of the plant. These should be
gathered when the capsules ripen.

MADAGASCAR PERIWINKLE
Catharanthus rosea Don.; Dogbane family (Apocynaceae)
Formerly Vinca rosea. A tender erect perennial with oblong leaves,
growing to two feet tall. It is ever-blooming. The flowers are rosy purple
or white, IV2 inches across. Origin unknown; now naturalized in the tropics
of every continent.

Cultivation and Propagation: Madagascar periwinkle may be grown as a

tender perennial in California and Florida or cultivated as an annual else¬
where. The seed should be sown thinly from January to March in flats
of sandy soil and kept at a temperature of 65° to 70° F. When the seedlings
show the second leaf they should be thinned out to a distance of about 1
inch apart. When they have 5 or 6 leaves they should be potted in 2-inch
pots. When all danger of frost is over, they may be set out a foot apart
each way.
Catharanthus prefers a light sandy loam, and will not do well in a very
heavy soil. When watering, the soil should be well soaked and then left
alone for several days. It does well in semi-shady situations.
A few plants may be lifted in the fall and carried over winter in pots,
cuttings from these may be used for propagation.

Harvesting: Leaves and flowers may be gathered any time’after the plant
begins to flower. In fall the plants should be cut off at the ground and
dried quickly, before cold weather starts them wilting.

MANDRAGORE; MANDRAKE
Mandragora officinarum L.; Nightshade family (Solanaceae)
A stemless herbaceous perennial with ovate foot-long leaves rising di¬
rectly from the root. The flowers are 1 inch long, purple or greenish yel¬
low, followed by an oblong greenish berry. Native of southern Europe.

Cultivation and Propagation: The mandragore is hardy throughout the

U.S. It likes a light, deep soil, as the roots run far down. They will do
poorly in a soil that is chalky or excessively gravelly. If the soil is too wet
in winter, the roots will rot. It is propagated from seeds which should be
sown in deep flats or, better, singly in pots. These should be kept well
watered and when they reach a good size they should be carefully set out
at least 2 feet apart.

Harvesting: The roots should be dug after the second or third year. If left

20
in the ground they will grow to a great age, and will have large branching
roots up to four feet long.

Note: Do not confuse this Old World mandrake with the American man¬
drake (Podophyllum peltatum) whose roots are sold by many herb com¬
panies under the name “Mandrake roots.” These roots are a powerful
cathartic poison. The plants are unmistakably different.

MARABA
Kaempfena galanga L.; Ginger family (Zingiberaceae)
A stemless perennial herb with 6-inch-long leaves rising directly from
the rootstock. The flowers are white with a violet spot. Native to New
Guinea.

Cultivation and Propagation: Kaempfena will not endure frost. It may be

grown in the open in the South if well protected. In the rest of the country
it should be grown indoors in a large pot of rich soil. Once the roots have
developed it should be given plenty of water. The pots may be kept in
water half their depth. It should be fed occasionally with liquid fertilizer.
Towards the end of summer the amount of water should be gradually
lessened. The roots should be kept almost dry during winter. In the spring
the roots may be divided to form new plants.

Harvesting: In spring, when dividing the roots, some of them may be split
open and dried quickly without heat, or used fresh.

mat£
Ilex Paraguayensis St. Hil.; Holly family (Aquifoliaceae)
An evergreen shrub or small tree growing to 20 feet tall, with oval,
wavy-toothed leaves. The flowers are tiny and white, followed by red or
reddish-brown berries. Native to Brazil.
Cultivation and Propagation: This ilex will do well in a rich, well-drained
soil. It grows very rapidly and can produce a crop after one year’s growth
from seed. The seed, however, must be stratified, as it does not germinate
until the second year. Seedlings should be transplanted in early fall or in
the spring, before new growth starts. Some of the leaves should be stripped
off first to lessen the shock. It may also be propagated by cuttings under
glass.
Harvesting: The branch tips bearing young leaves should be cut when the
growth is new. These should be lightly toasted in an oven until dry, and
the twigs removed and discarded.

MESCAL BEANS
Sophora secundiflora (Orteg) Lag.; Bean family (Leguminosae)
A small tree reaching 35 feet with age, with 4- to 6-inch leaves divided
into 7 to 9 leaflets. The flowers are violet-blue, very fragrant, and occur in
clusters up to 8 inches long; they bloom from February to April. The pod
is furry and contains up to 8 red seeds. Native to Texas and New Mexico.
Cultivation and Propagation: It can be grown outside in California and the
South, or may be grown as a tub plant in the North, and brought inside
during the cold months. It grows slowly in cool-summer regions. It thrives

21
in hot sun and a well-drained, alkaline soil. The soil should be kept on the
dryish side except when blooming. It is propagated from seeds, which
should be nicked and soaked, or from greenwood cuttings and layers.

Harvesting: In the fall the pods will open exposing the seeds, which should
be removed and stored immediately, before children can get to them.

MORMON TEA
Ephedra nevadensis Wats.; Gnetum family (Gnetaceae)

An erect, broom-like shrub 2 feet high. The leafless stems are pale green
when young and olive brown with age. Male and female flowers are found
on separate plants. The seeds are a smooth brown color and paired. Com¬
mon on slopes and hills, mostly below 4500 feet elevation. Native to the
Mohave and Colorado deserts, east to Utah, Arizona, and New Mexico.

Cultivation and Propagation: Ephedra should be planted in dry locations.

It thrives in ordinary loamy soil and does very well in a loose rocky soil
with full sun and little water. It is most often propagated by division of
the clumps in spring, and by seeds sown in a light sandy soil in early
spring. It may also be propagated by layers and suckers. It makes an excel¬
lent ground cover on rocky slopes.

Harvesting: The tops of the branches may be picked and dried at any time
as long as the plant is not denuded or the branches cut back past the viable
buds.

MORNING GLORY
Ipomoea sp.; Morning Glory family (Convolvulaceae)

This species is often called I. violacea, but it is my contention that it is

properly I. tricolor. It is a perennial twining vine, growing from 10 to 20
feet high, with heart-shaped leaves to 5 inches long. The flowers are funnel-
shaped, purplish blue with a white tube. Native to tropical America.
Psychoactive varieties are Heavenly Blue, Pearly Gates, Flying Saucers,
Wedding Bells, Blue Star, and Summer Skies.

Cultivation and Propagation: Although this species is a perennial it is usu¬

ally cultivated as an annual in this country. Morning glories thrive in a
strong, well-drained soil in a sunny site with plenty of water, but they will
do well almost anywhere. The seeds have a hard seedcoat and should be
nicked or soaked 2 hours in warm water before sowing. If the seeds are
nicked and soaked, the vines will generally flower 6 weeks after sowing.
The seeds should be planted xk-xh inch deep and not less than 6 inches
apart. This species tends to run to vine unless the roots are cramped. This
may be done by standing the vines in pots and allowing them to become
slightly potbound before setting them out. Although morning glories like a
lot of water, if the roots are kept damp constantly, the vines will produce
fewer flowers and they will set very little seed. Various methods have been
devised to increase the alkaloid content of the seeds by altering the soil
chemistry and using hormones. An interesting account of these methods is
found in the book Home Grown Highs by Mary Jane Superweed.

Harvesting: The seeds may be gathered as the pods become brown and dry.
Immature seeds are more bitter than ripe ones. It has been reported that
immature seeds contain more alkaloids, but this has not been confirmed.

22
There are approximately 850 seeds per ounce of the Heavenly Blue variety.
The stem and leaves contain some alkaloid. However, because they contain
purgative principles, this part of the plant is used only in extraction. If
used, pick fresh and dry quickly without heat.

Note: Some suppliers coat their seeds with toxins either as a fungicide or
to discourage their use as hallucinogens. The symptoms of ingesting treated
seeds are vomiting and diarrhea. Some people experience nausea from in¬
gesting untreated seeds and fear they have taken treated seeds. However,
if the company has treated their seeds, they must say so on the package.
To test your susceptibility to nausea, chew 50 to 100 seeds or less the first
time.

NUTMEG
Myristica fragrans Houtt.; Nutmeg family (Myristicaceae)

A tree growing to 70 feet tall with oblong, brownish, 5-inch leaves. The
flowers are small, with male and female borne on separate trees. The fruit
is reddish to yellowish, splitting into 2 valves. The brown seed (nutmeg)
is surrounded by a scarlet aril (mace). Native to the East Indies; cultivated
in the West Indies and South America.

Cultivation and Propagation: The nutmeg tree thrives in a hot, moist cli¬
mate, in a well-drained soil with partial shade. It may be grown outdoors
in southern Florida. Elsewhere it should be planted in a greenhouse with
relatively high humidity. It requires a moist soil, but should not be kept
wet, as the roots will rot. To obtain nutmegs both sexes should be planted.
One male is sufficient to pollinate 10 to 12 females. When grown from
seed, they should be planted singly in pots, and transplanted when 8 to 10
inches high. The trees will begin to bear in 7 to 9 years.

Harvesting: The seeds are collected when the fruit splits. The scarlet aril is
separated and dried in the sun to become mace. The seed is dried in the
sun for 2 months, being turned every few days until the kernel rattles
within the shell, which is then cracked and removed.

OLOLU1QUE
Rivea corymbosa Hall.; Morning Glory family (Convolvulaceae)

A slender perennial vine, woody at the base, with 4-inch-long heart-

shaped leaves. The flowers are white, in large clusters, IV2 inches wide.
The fruit is a one-seeded capsule. Native to tropical America.

Cultivation and Propagation: Cultivate much like the morning glory (which
see) except that it is less hardy and should be started indoors in the North.
It will also take more water than the common morning glory and, as it is
somewhat woody, it can be cut back and brought indoors to carry it over
the winter in the North.

Harvesting: The seeds should be gathered as the pods turn brown and dry.

PASSIONFLOWER
Passiflora incarnata L.; Passionflower family (Passifloraceae)

A strong perennial vine becoming 20 to 30 feet long. The leaves are

3-lobed and deeply toothed. Its flowers are about 2 inches across, white
with a purple or pink band around the center. The fruit is yellow when

23
ripe, IV2 to 2 inches long, edible. Native from Virginia south and west to
Florida and Texas.
Cultivation and Propagation: This is the hardiest passionflower. If the
roots are protected it will survive as far north as the Pennsylvania border.
It prefers a light rich soil, and does well in dry areas. Passiflora grows
readily from the seed, but takes several weeks to sprout. It is best sown on
the surface of light soil or peat moss with bottom heat. The young plants
may be planted in the open after 6 months. It may be propagated easily
by cuttings of half-ripened growth. These should be about 6 inches long;
they will root easily in sand and do not require bottom heat. The vines
may eventually overgrow and tangle themselves. 1 hin them out by cutting
branches back to their beginnings. Passionflower dies back at the first
frost.

Harvesting: The leaves, stems and flowers may be harvested at any time.
This is a good way to keep the plant from crowding itself. Each year be¬
fore the frost kills it, the entire vine may be cut back to the ground, yield¬
ing great quantities of herb. It may be dried in the sun or at a low heat.

PIPILTZINTZINTLI
Salvia divinorum Epling 8c Jativa; Mint family (Labiatae)

A woody perennial herb 4 to 6 feet tall with square, hollow stems. The
leaves are dark green, 6 to 8 inches long, with toothed edges. The flowers
sire blue or white on spikes. Only found cultivated by sorcerers in an iso¬
lated area in southern Mexico.

Cultivation and Propagation: It is propagated in much the same manner

as coleus. It needs a loose, rich soil. It is best grown as a tub plant and
brought indoors when the weather begins to cool. It may be grown out¬
doors in frost-free areas. This salvia is generally grown from cuttings, but I
know of one instance in which it was grown from seed. The seed should be
germinated in the same way as coleus. Cuttings should be taken in spring,
after the plant has had a lot of sun. Cut V2 inch below a node and root in
no more than an inch of water. A pinch of rootone may be added to the
water and shaken well to dissolve it. This will help prevent stem rot and
will stimulate rooting. When the roots are l/4-inch long the cutting should
be potted. Longer roots may be damaged. Plant in a 2-inch pot with good
potting soil. Grows rapidly after the roots are established. I have found
that this plant is susceptible to stem rot if over-watered. It is often at¬
tacked by aphids, white flies, spider mites and mealy-bugs.

Harvesting: Harvesting the leaves for use as a hallucinogen should not be

attempted until one has at least four one-year-old plants. An equal num¬
ber of leaves should be harvested from each plant so that the shock to one
plant will not be great. Dosage may vary; begin with 10-20 fresh leaves.
Fresh leaves are used, as the active principle is believed to be unstable.
Considering the rarity of the plant, the leaves should be chewed, because
when the juices are expressed much of the active principle is wasted.

PSILOCYBE MUSHROOMS
Agaric family (Agaricaceae)

Many species of mushrooms that contain psilocybin grow wild through¬

out the American continents, Europe, and parts of Asia and Africa. This

24
book doesn’t have the space to provide information on the collection and
cultivation of these mushrooms. Cultivation is difficult and collection can
be risky if one is not experienced in mycology. The reader who wishes to
collect these mushrooms is referred to A Key to the American Psilocybin
Mushroom by Leonard Enos (out of print). Information on high-yield cul¬
tivation of these mushrooms may be found in Home Grown Highs by Mary
Jane Superweed. See page 32 for suppliers of these books.

RHYNCHOSIA
Rhynchosia phaseoloides DC; Bean family (Leguminosae)

A high-climbing, perennial, twining vine with oval, pointed leaves in

groups of three. The flowers are reddish-yellow and grow in racemes. The
pod contains 2 scarlet seeds with a black end. Native to Central America.

Cultivation and Propagation: Rhynchosia may be grown outdoors in Cali¬

fornia and the South. It is propagated from the seed, which should be
nicked and sown in damp peat moss with bottom heat. I have found that
the seeds should not be soaked before sowing as this tends to rot them.
After sprouting transplant into a rich, well-drained soil in a 2-inch pot.
When the temperature outdoors is in the 70s, it may be planted out. In the
North, it should be cut back and brought indoors for the winter.

Harvesting: The seeds should be harvested when the pods begin to open.

Note: Rhynchosia seed closely resembles the seed of Abrus precatorius,

the rosary-pea. Abrus seed is one of the most poisonous naturally occurring
substances known to man. Less than one Abrus seed, weighing a tenth of a
gram, is fatal. However, Abrus seed is easily told from Rhynchosia seed by
the position of the hilum (the small dent where the seed was attached to
the pod). In Abrus the hilum lies within the black part of the seed; in
Rhynchosia it lies within the red part of the seed.
Abrus vines have pinnate leaves with many small leaflets, while Rhyn¬
chosia leaves are larger and in threes. Abrus flowers are red to purple,
rarely white; Rhynchosia flowers are reddish-yellow.

SAN PEDRO
Trichocereus pachanoi Brit. & Rose; Cactus family (Cactaceae)
A tall columnar cactus growing to 18 feet, with 6 to 8 ribs. The spines
are small, sometimes nonexistent. The flowers are white, reddish-brown
outside, up to 10 inches long, very fragrant, night-blooming. Native to
Ecuador and Peru.

Cultivation and Propagation: San Pedro may be grown outdoors in the

West and South or as a pot plant in the North. It prefers a sandy, well-
drained soil. If potted it should be kept in a clay pot, as this will help the
soil dry quickly and prevent root-rot. San Pedro is most easily propagated
by cuttings. These should be dried for a few days to several weeks, until
the cut surface forms a corky layer. The cutting should then be placed in
damp sand, deep enough to support it. After several weeks, when the cac¬
tus begins to show signs of growth or swelling, it may be potted in ordi¬
nary cactus soil. Seeds are now becoming rare in this country. San Pedro
enjoys full sunlight. Seedlings are more light-sensitive than mature plants.
If they turn a reddish-brown color, place them in partial shade. Potted
cacti should be turned occasionally, to expose all sides to the sun. They

25
are also very sensitive to natural gas and should never be grown in a kit¬
chen with a gas stove. One of the main sources of trouble with potted
cacti is over-watering during the dormant months. In winter, the plants’
rest period, they should only be watered enough to keep them from shriv¬
eling. In summer they may be watered often. San Pedro, like most cacti,
tend to grow mostly during spring and summer. During the summer they
send their roots deeper into the soil. At this time rootlets may appear at
the base of upper branches. This is an ideal time to take cuttings.

Harvesting: A piece of the cactus 3 inches in diameter and 3 to 6 inches

long is one dose. To reduce the bulk of the cactus to be eaten, or to store
it, it may be sliced thinly and dried quickly in the sun or in an oven at
150° to 225°F. In dry weight the dose should be from 12 to 20 grams.
When harvesting, always leave a stump with some areoles (spine pads) on it
in the soil, as new columns will grow out of the areoles.

SASSAFRAS
Sassafras albidum; Laurel family (Lauraceae)

Formerly Sassafras officinale. Usually a small, slender tree, but some¬

times growing 60-100 feet tall. The leaves are ovate, 5 inches long, and
sometimes 3-lobed. Its flowers are yellow, in 2-inch-long racemes, followed
by a dark blue fruit, on bright red stalks. Native from Maine to Florida
and Texas.

Cultivation and Propagation: Sassafras may be easily grown throughout

the U.S., in almost any soil. It may be propagated by seeds sown as soon as
they are ripe, suckers, and root cuttings. Because of its long taproots, it is
not easily transplanted when old. In the North it prefers a warm sunny
location.

Harvesting: The soil may be cleared away from a portion of the roots and
the root-bark peeled away. The inner bark should not be damaged, so that
the roots can grow new bark. Another method is to harvest the entire root,
as the pith of the root, although weaker, has the same properties as the
bark. With any method the tree should be given time to recover and grow
new roots before harvesting again.

SHANSI
Coriana thymifoha Humb. & Bonpl.; Coriaria family (Coriariaceae)

A shrubby, perennial herb growing from 1 to 4 feet high, with frondlike

branches covered with many 1-inch-long leaves. The flowers are very small
and grow in drooping, foot-long racemes. Native to Peru and New Zealand.

Cultivation and Propagation: In the South and West this plant may be
grown in the open. In colder areas it should be planted at the foot of a
south or west wall. In these areas the plant may be killed back to the
ground by severe frosts, but may arise from the roots in spring. Shansi will
grow well in most well-drained soils if given a sunny location. It is propa¬
gated most frequently from seeds sown in early spring, and by greenwood
cuttings taken in mid-summer. It may also be propagated by suckers and
layers.

Harvesting: When the berries ripen and turn a dark purple they may be
harvested and eaten fresh or dried in the sun for use later.

26
 SILVERVINE
Actinidia polygama (Sieb. & Zucc.) Maxim; Dillenia family (Dilleniaceae)

A perennial, deciduous, twining shrub. The leaves are ovate, up to 6

inches long, often variegated with white or pale yellow. The flowers are
white, 5-petaled, %-inch across, and occur in June. They are followed by
bitter, yellow, many-seeded berries. Native to Japan and China.

Cultivation and Propagation: This plant prefers a rich moist soil, and grows
well in a sunny or half-shaded location. It is propagated by seeds which are
sown in early spring in pots of sandy soil indoors. It may also be propa¬
gated by cuttings of the semi-woody shoots from the current year’s
growth and rooted in light moist soil in a sheltered place. These cuttings
are best taken in July. It can also be propagated by layering the ends of
the trailing branches. Give ample water and sturdy supports when well
established. Vines can be guided and tied.

Harvesting: The twigs and young leaves are the part generally used, but
older leaves and flowers may also be used. They should be dried as quickly
as possible, preferably out of direct sunlight, and without the application
of heat.

SINICUICHI
Loosestrife family (Lythraceae)

Two species of Heimia are used as hallucinogens. They are:

Heimia myrtifolia Link. Similar to H. salicifolia, but much smaller, growing

only 3 feet tall. The narrow leaves are 2 inches long, and the yellow flowers
are 1/5 of an inch long. Native of Brazil.

H. salicifolia Link. A perennial herbaceous shrub growing to 10 feet tall,

with narrow 3V2-inch-long leaves. The flowers are yellow, 34 inches long,
and are followed by a ribbed capsule. Native from Mexico to Argentina.

Cultivation and Propagation: These Heimias can be grown outdoors in Cali¬

fornia and the South. Elsewhere they may be grown as tub plants. Both
prefer a well-drained soil, but a good supply of water.
Heimia seed are very small, and should be sown very thinly on the sur¬
face of fine soil that has previously been firmed with a brick. When dealing
with a small quantity of seed, it is best to plant them singly, spacing them
an inch apart or more. Do not cover the seed, just press them into the soil
with a small flat object. The flat should be watered only by a fine spray or
by perfusion from the bottom. Keep the flat somewhat shaded and the
surface moist until most of the seeds have germinated. When the first true
leaves show, begin exposing the flat to more sun and let the surface dry
between waterings. If you have sown them too thickly, either thin out to
an inch or so apart or prick them out and space an inch apart in another
flat. Be careful while transplanting as Heimia seedlings have very large root
systems in relation to their size. Seedlings less than 14-inch tall often have
2-inch-long roots. When the seedlings are an inch or so tall, pot singly, or
plant them out to their permanent positions.
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep rooting. Heimia
may also be propagated by cuttings and layers.

Harvesting: The fresh leaves may be harvested after the plant is established
well enough to replace the leaves.

27
 SO'KSI
Mirabilis multiflora (Torr.) Gray; Four O’clock family (Nyctaginaceae)

An herbaceous perennial, 2 to 3 feet tall, with gray-green, somewhat

heart-shaped leaves. The flowers are rose-purple, to 2 inches long, 3 to 6 in
each calyx-like involucre. Native to the Southwest; found between 2500
and 5600 feet elevation in Arizona, Utah, Colorado, northern Mexico,
and parts of California.

Cultivation and Propagation: This species may be grown as a perennial in

the South and West. In the North the roots must be lifted and stored over
winter. It prefers a loose dry sandy soil but will do well in almost any
garden soil provided it is not too damp. The soil should be deep, as this
favors the production of large, long roots. So’ksi is propagated by seeds.
These are usually sown where the plants are to stand, but they may be
sown individually in small pots and set out as soon as the first pair of
leaves forms. The seeds often take several weeks to sprout, but the seed¬
lings grow very quickly and form blooming plants in midsummer. The
plants should be spaced 15 to 20 inches apart.

Harvesting: The roots may be dug at any time of the year but are prefer¬
ably dug in the fall, just after frost kills the upper part of the plant. If the
roots are left in the ground in the North, they may be destroyed by the
cold. Although the roots are large, thick and branching, they break easily
and cannot be pulled like carrots. They should be dug with a small trowel
or stick, or preferably with the hands. They should be washed thoroughly
and dried in the sun before storing. First-year roots weigh up to a pound
each.

Note: The roots of a similar plant, the common four o’clock (Mirabilis
jalapa) are a powerful purgative, and should not be ingested.

SYRIAN RUE
Peganum harmala L.; Caltrop family (Zygophyllaceae)

A bright green, succulent, perennial herb, becoming woody with age,

growing 1 to 2 feet tall. The leaves are 2 inches long and finely divided.
The flowers are white, 5-petaled, followed by a 2- to 4-cavitied capsule
about 3/8 inch in diameter. Native to the deserts of southern Asia and
Africa. Also found wild in some parts of Texas.

Cultivation and Propagation: Syrian rue may be grown outdoors in the

South and West. It does well in dry sandy soils, but will benefit from
somewhat richer soils. Will stand considerable drought. Viable seed are
rare but are the best means of propagation. These should be sown in flats
of half sand, half soil, in April and May. Water sparingly, letting the surface
dry. The seedlings are very susceptible to overwatering. They should be
grown as pot plants the first year, and brought indoors in the winter. In
the following spring they may be planted outdoors. In cold-winter areas
the roots should be lifted and stored in damp sawdust in a cool place until
early spring. Be sure to plant out before new growth starts.

Harvesting: The seed should be gathered as the capsules ripen and should
be dried in the sun. The roots may be harvested in autumn, in the same
manner as kava roots, after the tops die from frost. These should be split
and dried in the sun. The stems and foliage are inactive.

28
 TOBACCO
Nicotiana tabacum L.; Nightshade family (Solanaceae)

An herbaceous annual growing to 6 feet tall, covered with short, sticky

hairs. The leaves are thin, 1 foot or more long. The flowers are rose,
purplish-red, or white, 2 inches long, on stalks. Native to tropical America.
Possibly a hybrid.

Cultivation and Propagation: Tobacco grows best in a rich, sandy loam. It

is easily grown from seed. These should be started in flats of finely sifted
soil indoors in the early spring. Because they are very small they should be
mixed with sand and sown thinly on the surface of the soil, and lightly
pressed in with a small flat object. The flat should be watered only with a
fine spray or perfusion from the bottom. When the seed has germinated
move the flat to a sunny position. When the seedlings are large enough to
handle they may be transplanted to small pots or moved directly to the
garden if the weather is warm enough. The plants should be set out a foot
apart in rows 3 feet apart. They should have a warm sunny location with
plenty of water when the weather is hot and dry.
Flower buds should be picked off as they appear. This will increase the
size and thickness of the leaves. A plant or two may be allowed to flower,
because they are beautiful.
Tobacco is susceptible to many insect pests, fungi, and viral blights.
Tobacco is one of the worst soil depleters. After each season the soil in
which it has been grown must be heavily fertilized.

Harvesting: The curing of tobacco is an expert business, and will not be

covered here. Furthermore, this process greatly reduces its alkaloid con¬
tent. For hallucinogenic purposes, the leaves should be dried quickly,
preferably in the shade or indoors, and without the application of heat.
Uncured tobacco is very potent — the Indians that used it would often
pass out after as little as one cigarette, and “communicate with the gods.”
This type of tobacco should be smoked with caution. The danger here is
death from overdose rather than addiction. When used as a ritual narcotic
it is not smoked often enough to result in addiction.

WILD LETTUCE
Lactuca virosa L.; Sunflower family (Compositae)

A biennial herb growing to 6 feet high. The stem is a smooth, pale

green, sometimes spotted with purple. The lower leaves, rising from the
base, are from 6 to 18 inches long; the stem leaves are much smaller. The
stem is topped by numerous pale yellow flower heads. The seed is black
with a tuft of silvery hair. Native to central and southern Europe. Natural¬
ized in the U.S.

Cultivation and Propagation: Wild lettuce prefers a rich, loose, well-drained

soil, but can grow almost anywhere if watered frequently. It is propagated
by seeds in the same manner as garden lettuce. They may be sown very
thickly in rows and thinned out to 18 inches apart, or started in flats in
early spring. Flat-grown seedlings should be transplanted very carefully.

Harvesting: The milky juice of this plant may be harvested by cutting off
the flower heads and collecting the juice that exudes. This may be repeated
several times a day for several weeks by cutting a little off the top each
time. Another method that is much easier but will yield less is extracting

29
juice from the entire plant in a vegetable juicer and drying it in the sun or
under low heat.

WORMWOOD
Artemisia absinthium L.; Sunflower family (Compositae)

A hardy perennial, almost shrubby, growing up to 4 feet tall, its spread¬

ing branches covered with white, silky hairs. The leaves are much-divided
and have an intense, persistent bitter flavor. The flower heads are greenish
or yellow, 1/8 inch wide, and very numerous. Its seeds are grayish and very
small. Native to Europe and sometimes as an escape in North America.

Cultivation and Propagation: Wormwood grows well in poor, dry sandy

soils in a sunny location. The seeds, due to their small size, should be sown
in flats where they will not be washed out or packed down by rain. When
large enough to be set out they should be planted not closer than 15
inches apart for the first year. The next spring alternate plants should be
removed, leaving not less than 30 inches between those remaining. Ripened
puttings may be taken in March or October. These should be set in sandy
soil in a shady place and kept moist until well rooted. It may also be prop¬
agated by division of the roots. Weeds should be kept down and the plants
should be fertilized very lightly once a year.

Harvesting: The tops and leaves should be gathered and dried in July and
August, when the plant is in flower.

30
 SUPPLIERS

No one supplier has all or even most of the seeds or dried herbs or
plants mentioned in this book, but each has its own good selection. The
c-ompanies listed below are straight legitimate businesses. Their function is
to provide herbs or seeds in general. They do not expect that their prod¬
ucts are to be used psychotropically. When ordering by mail from these
companies, sound normal and do not ask about doses, effects, etc. If they
think that their products are being used as drugs they will probably not
want to do business with you. In your letters include a self-addressed
stamped envelope. This will make you appear more responsible. Inquire
about availability before ordering and include 25</ for postage and han¬
dling when requesting catalogs.

Seeds, Mail Order

W. A. Burpee Seed Co., 6450 Rutland, Riverside, CA 92502
George Park Seed Co., Inc., Greenwood, SC 29646
Redwood City Seed Co., Box 361, Redwood City, CA 94061

Cacti
A. Hugh Dial, 7685 Deer Trail, Yucca Valley, CA. Specializing in Tricho-
cereus and Coryphantha. Write for availability before ordering.
New Mexico Cactus Research, Box 787, Belen, NM. Cactus seed. Write for
availability.

Hops Roots
Wine and the People, 1140 University Ave., Berkeley, CA. Available in
autumn and winter. Inquire first.

Dried Herbs and Botanies

Magic Garden Herb Co., Box 233, Fairfax, CA. Herbs wholesale and retail.

Books
Home Grown Highs by Mary Jane Superweed. Price $1.00 plus 25</ han¬
dling from Flash, Department S, P.O. Box 16098, San Francisco, CA
94116.
A Key to the American Psilocybin Mushroom by Leonard Enos. Price
$5.00 postpaid from the Church of the One Sermon, 8135 Lincoln St.,
Lemon Grove, CA 92045.
Legal Highs, produced by the Twentieth Century Alchemist, contains ref¬
erence information on the dosages, uses, analysis of active constituents
and effects of most of the plants discussed in this book. Available from
Twentieth Century Alchemist, P.O. Box 4858, San Francisco, CA 94101.
The First Book of Sacraments of the Church of the Tree of Life. Available
from the Tree of Life Press, 451 Columbus Ave., San Francisco, CA
94133. Price is $3.00. 50</ extra for first-class mailing.
Pesticides and Your Environment by John Cary Stone. Available from the
National Wildlife Federation, 1412 Sixteenth St., N.W., Washington, DC
20036. Single copy free; additional copies 20</ each.

31
 GLOSSARY

Annual. A plant that naturally completes its life cycle in one year.
Aril. An outer covering of a seed.
Biennial. A plant that lives two years from sowing, usually flowering in the
second year.
Capsule. A seed pod that opens when dry and ripe.
Calyx. The small whorl of modified leaves at the base of a flower.
Compound leaves. Leaves divided into two or more leaflets.
Cotyledon. The first leaf or leaves in the seed. In some plants the cotyle-
cons remain underground in the seedcoat.
Germination. The sprouting of a seed.
Heel. A small portion of the previous year’s growth at the base of a cutting.
Herbaceous. Dying to the ground or lacking a definite woody structure.
Hilum. The small scar on a seed where it was attached to the seed pod.
Involucre. A whorl of small leaves close underneath a flower or flower
cluster.
Layers. See “Propagation,”
Leaflet. One part of a compound leaf.
Node. The place on a stem where leaves or branches originate.
Ovate. Having an outline the shape of an egg, with the stalk at the large
end.
Perennial. Growing for more than two years. Trees and shrubs are peren¬
nials.
Pinching. Removing the terminal bud.
Pinnate. Feather-formed. Said of a compound leaf with the leaflets along
both sides of the leaf stalk.
Raceme. An elongated cluster of flowers.
Rhizome. An underground stem.
Sepals. The separate leaves of the calyx.
Suckers. Small plants arising from the base of a larger plant.
Taproot. A primary root growing straight down from a plant.
Terminal. Growing at the end of a branch.
Umbel. A flower cluster in the shape of an umbrella.
Under glass. Grown in the greenhouse or, in the case of a cutting, with a
jar placed over it.

32
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DRUG MAN¬ HIGHS: A ALCHEMY:
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High Times Press Level Press

Box 386, Cooper Station Box 4858
New York, N.Y. 10003 San Francisco, Ca. 94101