Couch Grass (Elymus repens) vs Pau d'Arco (Tabebuia impetiginosa)

Couch Grass (Elymus repens)

Pau d'Arco (Tabebuia impetiginosa)

About

Couch grass is a vigorous perennial growing to 32 inches with a long, creeping rhizome, slender leaves, and erect spikes bearing green flowers aligned in two rows. Found in Europe, the Americas, northern Asia, and Australia, it is an invasive weed harvested throughout the year. In times of famine, the root was roasted and ground as a substitute for coffee and flour.

Pau d'arco is an evergreen tree that can reach 100 feet in height, producing pink flowers. The bark of this South American tree is used as a tea in traditional medicine for a wide range of ailments; MSK says its antibacterial and anticancer effects in laboratory studies have not been shown in humans. The tree grows in both mountainous terrains high in the Andes and in low-lying areas of Paraguay and Brazil. The prized inner bark is collected from wild-growing trees throughout the year.

Safety & precautions

Ask a qualified professional before medicinal use.

If taking anticoagulant medication, use only under professional supervision. Do not take during pregnancy. Avoid if trying to conceive. High doses may cause nausea, vomiting, intestinal discomfort, and anticoagulant effects. Blood clotting disorders are a contraindication.

Safety text above is printed in full and is never abbreviated. For each plant’s complete precautions, drug and food interactions and preparation notes, open its own page - both are free.