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rayless goldenrod

Scientific Name: Bigelowia

Family: Asteraceae

Category: Dicot

Growth:

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Rayless Goldenrod: A Closer Look

Rayless goldenrod, encompassing several species, presents a fascinating subject for botanical study and raises important considerations for livestock owners.

Considerations for Pets

  • Rayless goldenrod is documented as toxic to cattle, sheep, horses, and goats.
  • The toxic principle is trematol.

Scientific and Common Names

  • Accepted Scientific Name: Haplopappus heterophyllus
  • Common Names: Rayless goldenrod, jimmyweed, rosea, alkali weed

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Family: Asteraceae (also known as Compositae)
  • Synonyms: Isocoma pluriflora, Isocoma wrightii, Aplopappus heterophyllus
  • Related Species: Bigelowia nuttallii (Nuttall’s Rayless Goldenrod), Bigelowia nudata (Pineland rayless goldenrod)

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to the southwestern United States and Mexico.
  • Specifically mentioned locations include Texas, Arizona, and Florida.
  • Prefers open, saline ground and habitats like pine woods, ditches, and marshy areas.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • A perennial, multi-stemmed plant, described as a half-shrub.
  • Has erect stems that arise from a woody crown.
  • Typically grows to a height of 2 to 4 feet.
  • May be deciduous.

Ecological Role

  • Can be invasive and problematic on rangelands.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • Serves as a honey-bee food plant (specifically mentioned for Bigelowia nuttallii).
  • Rayless goldenrod toxicity affects livestock if ingested, causing clinical signs and potential poisoning.

Further Information

  • Referenced publication: J Vet Diagn Invest. 2010 Jul;22(4):570-7.
  • Texas A. & M. College, College Station is mentioned in connection to research.
  • Biodiversitylibrary.org is provided as a source of information.
  • Dave's Garden mentioned as a friendly community.