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Camphor Weed, Marsh Fleabane, Sweetscent
Pluchea odorata (L.) Cass.
(PLU-key-a o-do-RA-ta)
Syn. P. purpurascens (Sw.) DC
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GENERAL:
Camphor Weed is a shrubby, strongly scented plant to 1 m. (3 ft.)
tall. A vigorous annual, it has a history as a medicinal plant,
and extracts have also been used in making of perfume.
FLOWERS / FRUIT:
The pale purple composite (daisy like) flowers lack rays (outer
petals). The bisexual tubular flowers are packed tightly into
dense heads. The flowers have hairy, gland-dotted bracts
(modified leaves below the flower).
The seeds have fluff attached to help them fly in the wind.
LEAVES / STEMS:
The leaves are
alternate, lanceolate to elliptic, and have short stems. The
surface is pubescent (hairy) and has a strong camphor scent. A
sticky substance produced by glands is felt when the leaves are
crushed. Pinnate veins are raised and pubescent. The
slightly succulent leaves have soft teeth and are 5-8 cm. (2-3 in.)
long.
DISTRIBUTION:
It is found throughout Florida and along coastal plains from South Maine to Texas.
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