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Cuman ragweed

Scientific Name: Ambrosia psilostachya

Family: Asteraceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Annual, Perennial

Other Names:

       

Cuman Ragweed (Ambrosia psilostachya)

Ambrosia psilostachya, commonly known as Cuman ragweed, perennial ragweed, or western ragweed, is a plant species with notable ecological presence and allergenic properties.

Considerations for People

  • The airborne pollen of Ambrosia psilostachya can cause allergic reactions in people, particularly during late summer.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Ambrosia psilostachya DC.
  • Family: Asteraceae (also known as Compositae)
  • Synonyms: Includes Ambrosia psilostachya var. lindheimeriana (Scheele) Blank., and potentially Ambrosia coronopifolia Torr &amp A Gray, although this may refer to a different but related species.

Common Names

  • Cuman ragweed
  • Perennial ragweed
  • Western ragweed
  • Naked-spike ambrosia

Distribution and Habitat

  • Ambrosia psilostachya is widespread.
  • It is native to North America.
  • It can be found in grasslands, savannas, woodlands, riparian areas, disturbed areas, waste areas, travel corridors, and dry fields.
  • Specific locations mentioned include Illinois, Louisiana, Minnesota and South Australia (where it is almost all western ragweed).

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • It is an herb with both annual and perennial durations.
  • It spreads by rootstocks.
  • Western ragweed has distinctive disc-like heads with pinnately lobed leaves.
  • It features slender spike-like clusters, sometimes up to 6 inches long, of tiny flowers.

Ecological Role

  • It is noted for growing in "hot, dry waste places."

Further Information

  • Encyclopedia of Life provides information and articles about Ambrosia psilostachya.
  • Dave's Garden offers a community forum for sharing tips and ideas about gardens, seeds, and plants.
  • USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) resources are available.