SafePlants

Dogweed: A Multifaceted Name

The name "Dogweed" is a common term applied to several plants, particularly those formerly classified under the genus Dyssodia. This creates a fascinating, albeit sometimes confusing, array of plants sharing a common moniker.

Considerations for Pets

• Some dogweed species are described as prickly.
• The text mentions an incident where a dog ingested "Dog Weed", but the specific plant species is not clarified.

Considerations for Children

• Some dogweed species are described as prickly.

Scientific Classification and Nomenclature

• The text references plants formerly within the genus Dyssodia.
• Several species within the genus Thymophylla are also referred to as dogweed, including:
  • Thymophylla aurantiaca (Brandegee) Rydb.
  • Thymophylla aurea (A.Gray)
  • Thymophylla acerosa (DC.) Strother (also known as pricklyleaf dogweed)
  • Thymophylla pentachaeta
  • Thymophylla tephroleuca (Ashy Dogweed)
• Synonyms mentioned: Fetid Marigold

Distribution and Habitat

• Dogweeds, specifically within the Thymophylla genus, are known to grow in regions of the U.S. and Mexico.
• Specific locations mentioned: Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, Utah, Nevada, Puebla, Oaxaca, South Texas Plains, eastern Canada, Manitoba, and Quebec.
• Some species, like Common Dogweed, are found in dry calcareous and chalky soils.
• Ashy Dogweed (Thymophylla tephroleuca) is found in the State of Texas.

Ecological Role

• Fetid Dogweed (Dyssodia papposa) is documented as spreading along roadsides in eastern Canada, suggesting a potentially invasive nature in that region.

Morphological Characteristics

• Common Dogweed is described as a short perennial reaching a height of six to eight inches.
• Some dogweeds are described as strongly odiferous, annual or short-lived perennial herbs with finely divided leaves.
• Prickleleaf dogweed is a small plant, 4-8 inches tall, growing from a woody stem with several branches near the base and many slender, sharp-pointed leaves.
• One unnamed dogweed is described as a low, tufted, dark green, prickly plant with deep yellow flowers on leafless stalks.
• Esperance Dog Weed was a small herb or shrub which grew up to 10 cm high, with a smooth stem, minute lower leaves, and upper leaves.

Quirky Facts

• "Dogweed and Deathcap" is the name of a shop selling exotic plants and flowers in the Harry Potter universe.
• TMZ reported an incident about Robin Thicke's dog eating "dog weed"