Contents
Description
Ambrosia is a genus of flowering plants in the family Asteraceae. The plants in this genus are commonly known as ragweeds. There are about 50 species of ragweed, and most of them are native to North America. Ragweeds are annual or perennial herbs that produce greenish flowers that are wind-pollinated. These plants are known for causing allergies in humans and animals, particularly in late summer and fall. The name “ambrosia” comes from the Greek word for “food of the gods”, but these plants are far from divine.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Ambrosia |
Appearance
Ragweeds are usually tall, erect plants that can grow up to 2 meters in height. The leaves are alternate and divided into lobes. The flowers are small and greenish, and they grow in clusters at the top of the stem. The fruit is a small, dry, one-seeded achene. The plants have a strong, unpleasant odor, which is more noticeable when the leaves are crushed.
Care Guide
Ragweeds are considered invasive plants in some areas, and they can be difficult to control. However, if you want to grow ragweeds in your garden, here are some tips:
Water: Ragweeds are drought-tolerant plants, so they do not need much water. However, they will grow better if you water them regularly.
Fertilization: Ragweeds do not need much fertilizer, but you can give them a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Soil: Ragweeds can grow in a wide range of soils, but they prefer well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: Ragweeds need full sun to grow well. They will not do well in shade.
Hardiness Zones: Ragweeds can grow in a wide range of hardiness zones, from 2 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ragweeds are relatively pest- and disease-free. However, they can be affected by some common pests and diseases:
Pests: Aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies can attack ragweeds. You can control them with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Diseases: Ragweeds can be affected by rust and other fungal diseases. You can control them with fungicides.
Habitat
Ragweeds are native to North America, but they have been introduced to other parts of the world, including Europe, Asia, and Africa. They grow in a wide range of habitats, including fields, roadsides, and waste areas. Ragweeds are considered invasive plants in some areas, and they can outcompete native plants.
Question and Answer
Q: Are ragweeds poisonous?
A: Ragweeds are not poisonous, but they can cause allergies in some people and animals.
Q: How can I control ragweeds in my garden?
A: You can control ragweeds in your garden by pulling them up by hand or using a hoe. You can also use herbicides, but be careful not to harm other plants.
Q: Can ragweeds be used for medicinal purposes?
A: Some species of ragweed have been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, such as fever, diarrhea, and cough. However, more research is needed to determine their effectiveness.
Q: How can I prevent ragweed allergies?
A: You can prevent ragweed allergies by avoiding exposure to ragweed pollen. Stay indoors during peak pollen hours, keep windows closed, and use air conditioning.
Related Plants
- Aster
- Daisy
- Goldenrod
- Sunflower
References
- Flora of North America: Ambrosia
- USDA Plants Database: Ambrosia
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Ambrosia
