Grindelia

Description

Grindelia is a genus of flowering plants in the Asteraceae family. It is native to North and South America and is commonly known as gumweed due to its sticky resinous sap. The plant has been used for medicinal purposes by Native Americans and is still used today to treat respiratory problems, skin irritations, and headaches.

Taxonomic Information

Domain	Eukarya
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Tracheophyta
Class	Magnoliopsida
Order	Asterales
Family	Asteraceae
Genus	Grindelia

Appearance

Grindelia plants can grow up to 4 feet tall and have a spread of 2-3 feet. They have narrow, lance-shaped leaves that are 1-3 inches long and covered in fine hairs. The flowers are yellow and daisy-like, with a diameter of about 1 inch. The plant’s stems and leaves produce a sticky resinous sap that can be irritating to the skin.

Care Guide

Grindelia plants prefer well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. They are drought-resistant and do not require much water once established. Fertilization is not necessary but can be done sparingly in the spring. Grindelia is hardy in zones 4-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Grindelia is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be prone to rust and powdery mildew if grown in humid conditions.

Habitat

Grindelia is native to North and South America and can be found in dry, sandy areas, such as prairies, meadows, and deserts. It is also commonly found in disturbed areas like roadsides and fields.

Question and Answer

Q: What are the medicinal properties of Grindelia?

A: Grindelia has been used to treat respiratory problems, skin irritations, and headaches.

Q: Is Grindelia a hardy plant?

A: Yes, Grindelia is hardy in zones 4-9.

Q: What kind of soil does Grindelia prefer?

A: Grindelia prefers well-draining soil.

Q: What are the common pests and diseases of Grindelia?

A: Grindelia is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but can be prone to rust and powdery mildew in humid conditions.

Related Plants

• Grindelia camporum
• Grindelia chiloensis
• Grindelia ciliata
• Grindelia hirsutula

References

• “Grindelia.” Encyclopædia Britannica. Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., n.d. Web. 11 May 2021.
• “Grindelia.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Missouri Botanical Garden, n.d. Web. 11 May 2021.
• “Grindelia.” Plants for a Future. Plants for a Future, n.d. Web. 11 May 2021.