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Description
Cotula anthemoides, also known as Mayweed cotula or stinking chamomile, is an annual or biennial plant native to Europe but now found in many parts of the world, including North America, Asia, and Australia. The plant belongs to the Asteraceae family and can grow up to 30 cm tall. It has a strong, unpleasant odor that resembles that of camphor or burnt rubber.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Cotula |
Appearance
Cotula anthemoides has finely divided leaves that are green and hairless. The leaves are arranged alternately on the stem and are deeply cut into narrow segments. The plant produces small, yellow flowers that are 1-2 cm in diameter and bloom from June to September. The flowers have a yellow center and white petals that are slightly notched at the tips.
Care Guide
Cotula anthemoides is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for growing and caring for this plant:- Water: Cotula anthemoides prefers moist soil, so water it regularly, especially during dry spells. However, make sure not to overwater as this can cause root rot.- Fertilization: Cotula anthemoides does not require much fertilization. You can add a slow-release fertilizer to the soil in the spring.- Soil: Cotula anthemoides prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. It can also grow in poor soil conditions.- Sunlight: Cotula anthemoides prefers full sun but can also grow in partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Cotula anthemoides can grow in USDA hardiness zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cotula anthemoides is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew and root rot if overwatered. You can prevent these diseases by providing adequate drainage and avoiding overwatering.
Habitat
Cotula anthemoides is a common weed that can be found in many habitats, including fields, pastures, roadsides, and waste areas. It is tolerant of a wide range of soil conditions and can thrive in disturbed areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Cotula anthemoides poisonous?
A: No, Cotula anthemoides is not poisonous. However, it has a strong odor that can cause headaches and nausea in some people.
Q: Can Cotula anthemoides be used for medicinal purposes?
A: Yes, Cotula anthemoides has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including digestive problems, fever, and headaches.
Q: Can Cotula anthemoides be grown indoors?
A: No, Cotula anthemoides is an outdoor plant that requires full sun.
Q: Can Cotula anthemoides be used for landscaping?
A: Yes, Cotula anthemoides can be used for landscaping as it is a low-growing plant that forms a dense mat of foliage.
Related Plants
– Anthemis arvensis- Anthemis cotula- Chamaemelum nobile- Matricaria chamomilla
References
– “Cotula.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c865- “Cotula Anthemoides.” Plants for a Future. https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Cotula+anthemoides- “Mayweed Cotula.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/12279/Cotula-anthemoides/Details
