| Pulicaria dysenterica | |
|---|---|
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| (unranked): | Angiosperms |
| (unranked): | Eudicots |
| (unranked): | Asterids |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Tribe: | Inuleae |
| Genus: | Pulicaria |
| Species: | P. dysenterica |
| Binomial name | |
| Pulicaria dysenterica (L.) Bernh. |
|
Pulicaria dysenterica 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[1]. 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.[2] 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.[3]
Fleabane's common name comes from its former use as an incense to drive away insects[4]. Other past uses include treatments for dysentery and unspecified ocular maladies.[5]