About Verbesina encelioides (Cav.) Benth. & Hook.fil. ex A.Gray
This species has the scientific name Verbesina encelioides (Cav.) Benth. & Hook.fil. ex A.Gray. The plant can grow up to 1.5 metres (5 ft) tall. Its leaves reach up to 10 centimetres (4 in) in length and have toothed edges. It blooms from June to September, producing yellow flower heads that grow up to 5 cm (2 in) wide. This species is native to the Southwest United States and Northern Mexico, and it is naturalized in parts of Eastern North America, the Middle East, Spain, Argentina, Australia, and the Pacific islands. It responds strongly to disturbances on sites that suit its growth. Similar to sunflowers, it produces allelopathic chemicals that slow the growth of other susceptible plant species. Research has confirmed that it has an allelopathic effect on radishes, which may explain its ability to outcompete and dominate other plant species in some locations. Ecologically, it acts as a larval host for the bordered patch butterfly. It has become an invasive species in some areas, most notably in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands within Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument, where it negatively impacts seabird breeding habitat. Native Americans and early settlers used this plant to treat skin disorders.
