Contents
Description
Parthenium Confertum, also known as Wild Quinine or Wild Feverfew, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to North America and can be found in various regions such as the Great Plains, the Rocky Mountains, and the Southwest. The plant typically grows up to 3 feet tall and produces small white flowers that bloom from June to September. It has a strong odor and bitter taste and was traditionally used by Native Americans to treat various ailments such as fever, headache, and rheumatism.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Parthenium |
Appearance
Parthenium Confertum has a thick stem and leaves that are light green in color. The leaves are deeply lobed and serrated, giving them a fern-like appearance. The plant produces small white flowers that are arranged in clusters at the top of the stem. The flowers have a yellow center and are surrounded by white petals that have a feathery texture. The plant has a strong, pungent odor that is similar to camphor.
Care Guide
Parthenium Confertum is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. Fertilization is not necessary, but a balanced fertilizer can be applied in the spring to promote growth. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Parthenium Confertum is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to powdery mildew, rust, and spider mites. These can be treated with a fungicide or insecticide, depending on the issue.
Habitat
Parthenium Confertum is native to North America and can be found in various regions such as the Great Plains, the Rocky Mountains, and the Southwest. It grows in open fields, prairies, and along roadsides. It prefers dry, sandy soil and can tolerate drought and extreme temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Parthenium Confertum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Parthenium Confertum can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the plant receives enough sunlight.
Q: Does Parthenium Confertum attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Parthenium Confertum is known to attract various pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and moths.
Q: Is Parthenium Confertum invasive?
A: No, Parthenium Confertum is not considered invasive but can spread rapidly in favorable conditions.
Q: Can Parthenium Confertum be used for medicinal purposes?
A: Yes, Parthenium Confertum has traditionally been used by Native Americans to treat various ailments such as fever, headache, and rheumatism.
Related Plants
- Parthenium Hysterophorus
- Parthenium Integrifolium
- Parthenium Ligulatum
References
- “Parthenium Confertum – Wild Quinine.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center – The University of Texas at Austin, 2021, www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=PACO.
- “Parthenium Confertum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, 2021, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b408.
- “Parthenium Confertum (Wild Quinine).” Illinois Wildflowers, 2021, www.illinoiswildflowers.info/prairie/plantx/wd_quinine.htm.
