This fairly drab looking perennial plant that is common in disturbed areas is povertyweed (Iva axillaris), part of the Sunflower Family (Asteraceae). It grows from a network of creeping rootstocks and is generally about a foot high. The leaves are narrow and elliptical and about an inch long. The plant is native to western North America.
The flowers are green and found close to the stem at the axils of the upper leaves. Although only 1/4 inch wide, each flowerhead has 4-8 female flowers and 8-20 male flowers. The Native Americans used the plant for various ailments such as stomachaches.For more information about povertyweed, click here.
No comments:
Post a Comment