Common Fleabane

Description:

Pulicaria dysenterica, or Common Fleabane, is a species of Fleabane in the daisy family. It is native to Europe and western Asia where it grows in a variety of habitats ranging from semi-arid Mediterranean woodlands to wetter situations. P. dysenterica is perennial and can form dense clusters of plants, spreading by its roots. It flowers at its maximum height of about 6 dm. Leaves are alternately arranged and clasp the stem, which itself contains a salty-astringent liquid. The yellow inflorescences are typically composed of a prominent center of 40-100 disc florets surrounded by 20-30 narrow, pistillate ray florets. When setting seed the flower heads reflex.Fleabane's common name comes from its former use as an incense to drive away insects. Other past uses include treatments for dysentery and unspecified ocular maladies.

Notes:

Synonym: Inula dysenterica. Other common name: Meadow False Fleabane. Greek name: Κόνυζα η δυσεντερική.