Pluchea camphorata Plant Identification (Flower, Leaf, Care, Uses)

Pluchea camphorata (L.) DC. – Camphorweed

Pluchea camphorata plant

FamilyAsteraceae

Stems:

Pluchea camphorata stem

Leaves:

Pluchea camphorata leaves

Inflorescence:

N/A

Involucre:

Pluchea camphorata involucre

Ray flowers:

Absent.

Disk flowers:

Pluchea camphorata flowers

Flowering – August – October.

Habitat – Pastures, bogs, woodlands, ditches, swamps, floodplains, disturbed sites.

Origin – Native to North America.

Other information – This attractive species can be found scattered throughout Alabama. The plant can be identified by its big, toothed leaves, pubescent stems, and dense inflorescences. The plant also has a fairly strong odor when crushed or bruised.
The genus Pluchea is named for French botanist Noel Antoine Pluche (1688-1761).
The species epithet camphorata means “camphor-like scented.”

Alabama Distribution:

Pluchea camphorata map

Photographs taken off Moores Mill Rd., Auburn, AL., 8-26-04.