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Jack in the bush

Scientific Name: Chromolaena odorata

Family: Asteraceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Subshrub

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Jack In The Bush (Eupatorium odoratum)

Jack In The Bush, scientifically known as Eupatorium odoratum, is a plant with a rich history and diverse uses, particularly in traditional medicine. It goes by several common names, reflecting its widespread presence and local significance.

Common Names:

  • Jack In The Bush (also Jack'na Bush locally in Jamaica)
  • Christmas Bush
  • Christmas Rose
  • Bitter Bush
  • Siam Weed
  • Santa Maria
  • Hemp Agrimony
  • Flewi Nwel
  • Crucita
  • Blue Mistflower
  • Fragrant Mistflower
  • Blue Boneset
  • Fragrant Boneset
  • Common Flossflower

Taxonomy and Nomenclature:

  • Scientific Name: Eupatorium odoratum
  • Family: Asteraceae
  • Group: Dicot
  • Taxonomic Rank: Subshrub

Note: Some sources may list Eupatorium odoratum as a synonym for other plants within the Eupatorium genus or related genera.

Considerations for Children:

  • Traditionally used as a cold and flu remedy, especially for children in the Caribbean.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits:

  • A spreading shrub that can grow up to 4 meters high.
  • Leaves are slightly oval with dented margins and a long tip.

Distribution and Habitat:

  • Native to tropical regions.
  • Found in Jamaica and other parts of the West Indies.
  • Also mentioned as a native plant of Florida and across the southeast United States.

Ecological Role:

  • Can grow in multiple forms and can be very upright when growing in the sun.

Traditional and Medicinal Uses:

  • Traditionally used in the Caribbean as a remedy for colds and flu.
  • Believed to help draw out phlegm and ease breathing.
  • Contains Alpha-pinene, which is believed to eliminate infections and promote healing.

Interactions with Other Organisms:

  • Considered a very good butterfly plant due to its nectar-rich flowers.