SafePlants

Blumea: The False Oxtongue

The genus Blumea, commonly known as False Oxtongue, encompasses a variety of species, each with its own unique characteristics. This plant, belonging to the Asteraceae family, is a dicot and often described as a forb/herb, indicating it is a non-woody plant that is not a grass.

Considerations for Pets

• Some species, like Bristly Oxtongue, are described as prickly herbs.

Scientific Classification

• Genus: Blumea
• Kingdom: Plantae (Plants)
• Family: Asteraceae (Sunflower family)
• Group: Dicot

Species Examples and Synonyms

• Blumea laciniata: Also known as Cutleaf False Oxtongue.
• Blumea viscosa: Also known as Clammy False Oxtongue. Synonyms include Blumea viscosa (Mill.) Badillo and Sticky Blumea.
• Blumea sessiliflora: Nomencl. ref.: Nouv. Ann . Mus. Par. iii. 410. 1834. Also known as sessileleaf false oxtongue.

Common Names

• False Oxtongue
• Cutleaf False Oxtongue
• Clammy False Oxtongue
• Malay Blumea

Distribution and Habitat

• Blumea's floral region includes North America, specifically the US Lower 48.

Morphological Characteristics

• Blumea species are often described as forbs/herbs.
• Bristly Oxtongue is noted as an annual or biennial prickly herb, growing up to 80cm, with bristles that have swollen bases. It has pale yellow flowers.

Related Species

• Other Blumea species mentioned include: Blumea korthalsiana, Blumea lacea, Blumea lacera, Blumea laevis, Blumea lanceolaria, Blumea lecomteana, and Blumea linearis.

Resources and Further Information

• USDA, NRCS. The PLANTS Database. National Plant Data Center, Baton Rouge, LA, USA.
• Discover Life provides information on the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Blumea laciniata.
• Project Noah is a resource for exploring and documenting local wildlife.