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pungent false tarplant
Scientific Name: Centromadia pungens
Family: Asteraceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Forb/herb
Duration: Annual
Other Names:
Centromadia pungens: Pungent False Tarplant
This plant is known by its scientific name Centromadia pungens, with the common name Pungent False Tarplant. It also goes by names like Common Tarweed, Pungent Hemizonia, and is sometimes referred to simply as Spikeweed or False Tarplant.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Kingdom: Plantae
- Taxonomic Rank: Species
- Family: Asteraceae (Aster family)
- Synonyms:
- Hartmannia pungens Hook. & Arn.
- Hemizonia pungens (Note: this name also appears in the text)
- Centromadia pungens var. pungens
The text also mentions a few subspecies, including Centromadia pungens ssp. laevis and Centromadia pungens ssp. maritima.
Considerations for Pets
- The text mentions that when crushed, this plant emits a strong pungent smell and is mildly toxic.
- The name "spikeweed" suggests potential physical hazards such as sharp points or prickly structures.
Distribution and Habitat
- The Pungent False Tarplant is native to the US West.
- It is considered introduced and impersistent in some areas.
- It is equally likely to occur in wetlands or non-wetlands, typically found at elevations between 0-1640 ft.
- The plant can be found during the months of April through September.
Ecological Role
- The plant is sometimes referred to as an "introduced" species, implying that it is not native to all regions where it is found.