SafePlants

Thoroughwort: A Botanical Overview

Thoroughwort is a common name applied to several plants, most notably species within the Eupatorium genus. Let's explore the fascinating details surrounding these plants.

Common and Scientific Names

• Common Names: Thoroughwort, Boneset, Ague-weed, Indian Sage, Common Boneset, White Boneset, Late Boneset, Late-Flowering Boneset, Shrubby Boneset, White Mistflower, Havana Snakeroot, Tall White-Top
• Scientific Names: Primarily associated with Eupatorium perfoliatum. Other species include Eupatorium serotinum, Eupatorium album, Eupatorium hyssopifolium, Eupatorium rotundifolium, Eupatorium altissimum L.. Also, Ageratina havanensis (shrubby boneset), Ageratina adenophora or Eupatorium adenophorum (Croftonweed), and Microthlaspi perfoliatum (thoroughwort pennycress).

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Family: Asteraceae (also known as Compositae or Sunflower Family)
• Genus: Eupatorium, Ageratina, Chromolaena, Microthlaspi
• Synonyms:
  • Eupatorium perfoliatum synonyms include Cunigunda perfoliata and Eupatorium chapmanii.
  • Eupatorium frustratum (Cape Sable Thoroughwort) synonyms include Osmia frustrata(B.L.Rob.) Small and Chromolaena frustrata (B.L.Rob.).
• Group: Dicot

Distribution and Habitat

• Eupatorium perfoliatum is a common plant found "in all sections" and inhabits bogs and swales.
• Eupatorium hyssopifolium is native to dry meadows and sandy fields.
• Eupatorium rotundifolium has a native distribution covering nearly all of the eastern US.
• Croftonweed (Ageratina adenophora or Eupatorium adenophorum) is native to Mexico.
• Cape Sable Thoroughwort (Chromolaena frustrata) is specifically mentioned as having critical habitat designated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
• Eupatorium species are generally found in overgrazed pastures and waste places.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Eupatorium serotinum is a stout perennial that can grow up to 6 feet tall and has dull white flowers and distinctive leaves.
• Eupatorium album is a perennial herb that grows 1-3 feet high with white flowers.
• Eupatorium is described as perennial herbs growing 3-5 feet tall with stout, hairy stems and opposite leaves.
• Thoroughwort is described as an erect, simple or few-branched perennial with a woody base and purple stems, and leaves that are opposite, simple, deltoid-ovate, and serrulate.
• Eupatorium hyssopifolium features white flowers and very fine-textured foliage in flat-topped clusters.

Considerations for Pets

• Some Eupatorium species are described as growing in "waste places". Consider the potential for herbicide or pesticide exposure if harvesting from such locations.

Considerations for Children

• The name "thoroughwort" originates from the appearance of the stem piercing through the leaf, which may be of interest to children exploring plant structures.

Ecological Role

• Late-flowering Thoroughwort is described as a "magnet" in the garden, attracting nectar-seeking insects.

Quirky Facts

• One historical reference mentions "thoroughwort tea" as a medicine.
• The name "thoroughwort" comes from the fact that its branches appear to grow through the leaves.

Further Information

• Dave's Garden is mentioned as a resource for gardening tips and ideas.
• Toadshade Wildflower Farm specializes in native plants and offers Eupatorium serotinum.
• Encyclopedia.com is mentioned as a source of articles, videos, and information about thoroughwort.