SafePlants

Ragleaf Bahia (Amauriopsis dissecta)

The plant commonly known as Ragleaf Bahia has an interesting taxonomic history and ethnobotanical uses.

Considerations for Pets

• This plant is a forb/herb, a non-woody plant that is not a grass.

Scientific Classification

• Accepted Scientific Name: Amauriopsis dissecta (syn. Bahia dissecta)
• Common Names: Ragleaf Bahia, Yellow Ragweed, Yellow Ragleaf, Wild Chrysanthemum
• Family: Asteraceae (Sunflower family)

Synonyms and Taxonomic Notes

• Synonyms include: Bahia dissecta (A. Gray) Britton, Amauria dissecta A. Gray, Bahia dissecta (Gray) Britt., Amauriopsis dissecta Rydb.
• Note that Bahia dissecta is sometimes listed as not an active name, with preference given to Amauriopsis dissecta.

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to North America, specifically the west and southwest USA.
• Found in locations such as Los Alamos County, New Mexico; Texas; Arizona (including the White Mountains, Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest); and montane regions.
• It is found in vegetation zones like Foothills and Montane.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• A forb/herb, indicating a non-woody, non-grass plant.
• Features divided green leaves and small yellow wildflowers.
• Blooms in August-September.
• Can be annual or biennial.

Quirky Facts

• The Navajos referred to Ragleaf Bahia as "twisted medicine" and used a tea made from the boiled roots as a contraceptive.

Traditional Uses

• The Navajo people traditionally used a tea made from the roots as a contraceptive.
• Keres, Western Drug people used infusion of the plant as a cathartic.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Often found in the background of photos featuring Young Saguaro Cactus.

Further Information

• Flora of North America (FNA): Search for Bahia dissecta or Amauriopsis dissecta.
• Encyclopedia of Life: Search for Amauriopsis dissecta.