Agroecology

Artemisia annua

Image source: https://baike.baidu.com/item/%E9%BB%84%E8%8A%B1%E8%92%BF/8259189

▍Morphological Features

Height: Typically 50-150cm tall, but can vary

Stem: Erect, branched, glabrous or sparsely hairy

Leaves: Alternate, segmented with deeply dissected leaflets

Flowers: Small, yellow, tubular florets forming a capitulum
Fruits: Achene, small and light enough for wind dispersal
Roots: Taproot system with lateral roots extending broadly

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Sandy loam (pH 6.0-7.5)
Germination Temp	20-25℃ (Optimal)
Planting Density	40cm row spacing

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Powdery Mildew: 50% Carbendazim WP
Root Rot: Crop rotation & drainage

Pests

Aphids: 10% Imidacloprid SC
Spider Mites: Abamectin EC

▍Applications

Medical Use

Artemisinin production for malaria treatment

Essential Oil

Linalool (25%), Camphor (15%)

Ecological

Soil conservation plant

Artemisia argyi

Image source:https://shop.garten-jan.de/de/8472-artemisia-argyi.html

▍Morphological Features

Height: Typically 80-120cm tall
Stem: Erect, often with ascending branches, densely tomentose
Leaves: Alternate, oblong or ovate-lanceolate, segments are pinnatipartite or pinnatisect, greyish white on the lower surface

Flowers: Small, yellowish or reddish, tubular florets forming a dense capitulum
Fruits: Achene, small and typically without pappus
Roots: Strong taproot with an extensive network of lateral roots

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Well-drained loam or sandy loam (pH 6.0-7.5)
Germination Temp	18-25℃ (Optimal)
Planting Density	30-40cm between plants, 60cm row spacing

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Leaf Blight: Thiophanate-methyl WP
Root Knot: Marigold rotation

Pests

Leaf Beetles: Emamectin benzoate
Cutworms: Phoxim granules

▍Applications

Traditional Therapy

Moxibustion material in TCM

Aromatherapy

Essential oil extraction

Cultural

Dragon Boat Festival rituals

Ambrosia artemisiifolia

Image source:https://florafinder.org/Species/Ambrosia_artemisiifolia.php

▍Morphological Features

Height: Typically 30-90cm, but can reach up to 2 meters
Stem: Erect, branching, covered with fine hairs
Leaves: Opposite on lower parts, alternate on upper; pinnately divided into narrow segments, giving a ragged appearance

Flowers: Greenish, inconspicuous; male flowers in terminal spikes, female flowers in the axils of the leaves below the spikes
Fruits: Small achenes, about 2-5mm long, usually buried within involucres
Roots: Taproot system with strong lateral roots

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Well-drained soils, prefers sandy loam (pH 6.0-7.5)
Germination Temp	15-25℃ (Optimal)
Planting Density	30-40cm between plants, 60cm row spacing

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Rust: Use fungicides like mancozeb
Mildew: Improve air circulation and use systemic fungicides

Pests

Aphids: Neem oil or insecticidal soap application
Beetles: Use pyrethrin-based products

▍Applications

Allergenic Pollen

A significant source of allergens for hay fever sufferers.

Phytoremediation

Used in phytoremediation due to its ability to absorb heavy metals from soil.

Research

Subject of research for allergy treatments and environmental applications.

Ambrosia trifida

Image source:https://medivetus.com/botanic/ambrosia-trifida-giant-ragweed-medicinal-uses/

▍Morphological Features

Height: Typically 1.5-3 meters tall, but can reach up to 5 meters
Stem: Erect, robust, branching, covered with fine hairs, often reddish in color
Leaves: Opposite on lower parts, alternate on upper; large, deeply lobed, with coarse teeth, giving a rough texture

Flowers: Greenish, inconspicuous; male flowers in terminal spikes, female flowers in the axils of the leaves below the spikes
Fruits: Small achenes, about 3-5mm long, typically buried within involucres
Roots: Strong taproot system with lateral roots extending broadly

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Well-drained loam or sandy loam (pH 6.0-7.5)
Germination Temp	20-25℃ (Optimal)
Planting Density	50-60cm between plants, 80cm row spacing

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Rust: Use fungicides like mancozeb
Mildew: Improve air circulation and use systemic fungicides

Pests

Aphids: Neem oil or insecticidal soap application
Beetles: Use pyrethrin-based products

▍Applications

Allergenic Pollen

A significant source of allergens for hay fever sufferers.

Phytoremediation

Used in phytoremediation due to its ability to absorb heavy metals from soil.

Research

Subject of research for allergy treatments and environmental applications.

Arctium lappa

Image source:https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/arctium-lappa/

▍Morphological Features

Height: Typically 1-2 meters tall

Stem: Erect, branched, hollow and ribbed, covered with fine hairs
Leaves: Large, heart-shaped to broadly ovate, dark green on top, lighter underneath, with wavy margins

Flowers: Purple to pinkish, thistle-like heads (3-4cm in diameter), clustered at the ends of branches
Fruits: Burrs with hooked bristles, containing small, elongated seeds
Roots: Long, thick taproot, brownish-grey outside, white inside

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Deep, fertile loam or sandy loam (pH 6.0-7.5)
Germination Temp	20-25℃ (Optimal)
Planting Density	30-40cm between plants, 60-80cm row spacing

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Leaf Spot: Use copper-based fungicides
Root Rot: Improve drainage and avoid overwatering

Pests

Aphids: Neem oil or insecticidal soap application
Cutworms: Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) or phoxim granules

▍Applications

Medicinal Use

Used in traditional medicine for detoxification and treating skin conditions

Culinary Use

Young leaves and stems are edible; roots used as a vegetable in various cuisines

Other Uses

Seeds can be roasted and used as a coffee substitute

Arctium minus

Image source:https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/arctium-minus/

▍Morphological Features

Height: Typically 0.5-1.5 meters tall

Stem: Erect, branched, hollow with fine ridges, covered with short hairs
Leaves: Large, cordate to ovate, dark green above and lighter below, with wavy or toothed margins

Flowers: Purple to pinkish thistle-like heads (1.5-2cm in diameter), usually clustered at the ends of branches
Fruits: Burrs with hooked prickles, containing small, elongated seeds
Roots: Long taproot, brownish on the outside, white inside

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Well-drained loam or sandy loam (pH 6.0-7.5)
Germination Temp	18-25℃ (Optimal)
Planting Density	30-40cm between plants, 60-80cm row spacing

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Leaf Spot: Use copper-based fungicides
Root Rot: Ensure good drainage and avoid waterlogging

Pests

Aphids: Neem oil or insecticidal soap application
Cutworms: Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) or phoxim granules

▍Applications

Medicinal Use

Used in traditional medicine for its diuretic and detoxifying properties

Culinary Use

Young leaves can be eaten as a vegetable; roots are also edible and used in various dishes

Other Uses

Seeds have been roasted and used as a coffee substitute

Artemisia tridentata

Image source:http://www.highplainsgardening.com/plant-profiles/artemisia-tridentata

▍Morphological Features

Height: Typically 0.3-2 meters tall, but can reach up to 3 meters in favorable conditions
Stem: Woody at the base, branching from the ground, covered with fine hairs giving a grayish appearance
Leaves: Alternate, narrow, and deeply three-lobed (trident shape), silvery-green due to dense covering of fine hairs

Flowers: Small, yellowish, tubular flowers clustered in panicles, blooming late summer to early fall
Fruits: Tiny, one-seeded achenes without pappus

Roots: Deep taproot system allowing for drought resistance

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Well-drained sandy or gravelly soils, tolerant of poor nutrient conditions (pH 6.0-8.0)
Germination Temp	15-20℃ (Optimal)
Planting Density	1 meter between plants, 2 meters row spacing

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Rust: Control by removing affected parts and using appropriate fungicides
Mildew: Improve air circulation and avoid excessive moisture

Pests

Aphids: Use neem oil or insecticidal soap
Spider Mites: Water sprays and natural predators like ladybugs

▍Applications

Medicinal Use

Used traditionally by Native Americans for various ailments, including colds and infections

Ecosystem Services

Important for soil stabilization and providing habitat for wildlife in arid regions

Cultural Significance

Has significant cultural value among indigenous peoples for ceremonies and traditional practices

Bidens alba

Image source:https://www.picturethisai.com/id/wiki/Bidens_alba.html

▍Morphological Features

Height: Typically 0.3-1.5 meters tall, but can grow taller under favorable conditions

Stem: Erect, branched, often with a reddish tint, covered with fine hairs

Leaves: Opposite, pinnately compound with serrated leaflets, dark green in color

Flowers: White to pale yellow daisy-like flowers, approximately 2-3 cm in diameter, blooming throughout the year in tropical regions
Fruits: Black or dark brown achenes with two barbed awns, aiding in seed dispersal by attaching to animals
Roots: Fibrous root system that supports rapid growth and spread

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Well-drained soils, adaptable to various soil types including sandy loam (pH 5.5-7.5)
Germination Temp	20-30℃ (Optimal)
Planting Density	20-30cm between plants, 50cm row spacing

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Leaf Spot: Apply copper-based fungicides as needed
Root Rot: Ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering

Pests

Aphids: Use neem oil or insecticidal soap for control
Whiteflies: Introduce natural predators such as ladybugs or use sticky traps

▍Applications

Medicinal Use

Traditionally used for treating wounds, fever, and digestive issues due to its anti-inflammatory properties

Ecosystem Services

Attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies, enhancing biodiversity

Cultural Significance

Used in some cultures as an edible plant, both raw and cooked

Buxus sinica

Image source:https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/buxus-sinica/

▍Morphological Features

Height: Typically 1-3 meters tall, but can be pruned to maintain lower heights
Stem: Erect with numerous branches; bark is grayish-brown and smooth when young, becoming fissured with age
Leaves: Small, oval to elliptical, dark green and glossy on the upper surface, lighter underneath, about 1-2 cm long

Flowers: Small, yellowish-green, inconspicuous flowers in axillary clusters or cymes, appearing in spring
Fruits: Capsules that split open to release small black seeds
Roots: Fibrous root system that is fairly shallow but extensive

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Well-drained loam or sandy loam, tolerant of various soil types (pH 6.0-7.5)
Germination Temp	18-24℃ (Optimal)
Planting Density	40-60cm between plants for hedges, 1 meter or more for individual specimens

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Dieback: Prune affected parts and apply fungicides if necessary
Root Rot: Ensure good drainage and avoid overwatering

Pests

Boxwood Leafminer: Use systemic insecticides or prune infested leaves
Spider Mites: Control by increasing humidity and using insecticidal soap or neem oil

▍Applications

Landscape Design

Commonly used for hedges, borders, topiaries, and as a formal garden element due to its dense foliage and tolerance to pruning

Erosion Control

Its extensive root system helps prevent soil erosion, making it suitable for slopes and banks

Cultural Significance

Valued in traditional Chinese gardens for its evergreen nature and ability to shape into artistic forms

Carthamus tinctorius

Image source:https://www.feedipedia.org/content/safflower-carthamus-tinctorius-flower

▍Morphological Features

Height: Typically 0.5-1 meter tall, but can grow up to 1.5 meters under optimal conditions

Stem: Erect, branching, often with a reddish hue and covered with fine hairs
Leaves: Long, narrow, deeply lobed, spiny along the edges, arranged alternately on the stem

Flowers: Bright orange to deep red thistle-like flowers, solitary at the end of branches, blooming from late spring to early summer
Fruits: Small, white or light brown achenes (seeds) without pappus
Roots: Taproot system that is relatively deep for efficient water uptake

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Well-drained loam or sandy loam, prefers neutral to slightly alkaline soil (pH 6.0-7.5)
Germination Temp	15-20℃ (Optimal)
Planting Density	30-40cm between plants, 60-80cm row spacing

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Root Rot: Ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering
Mildew: Improve air circulation and use fungicides as needed

Pests

Aphids: Apply neem oil or insecticidal soap
Cutworms: Use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) or phoxim granules

▍Applications

Medicinal Use

Traditionally used in herbal medicine for promoting blood circulation and treating menstrual disorders

Dye Production

The petals are used to produce a natural red dye, historically important in textile industry

Culinary Use

Used as a food coloring agent and spice in various cuisines around the world

Cynara cardunculus

Image source:https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/cynara-cardunculus/

▍Morphological Features

Height: Typically 1-1.5 meters tall, but can grow up to 2 meters in optimal conditions
Stem: Strong and upright, branching near the top, covered with fine hairs or spines depending on variety
Leaves: Large, deeply lobed, grey-green in color, with sharp spines at leaf edges; basal leaves are larger and more pronounced

Flowers: Large, violet-purple thistle-like heads (capitula), approximately 7-15 cm in diameter, enclosed by tough, overlapping bracts
Fruits: Small achenes (often referred to as seeds) that develop after flowering
Roots: Extensive root system designed for efficient water and nutrient absorption

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Deep, fertile, well-drained loam or sandy loam soil (pH 6.5-7.0)
Germination Temp	20-25℃ (Optimal)
Planting Density	60-90cm between plants, 1 meter row spacing

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Gray Mold: Control humidity and use fungicides if necessary
Root Rot: Ensure good drainage and avoid overwatering

Pests

Aphids: Use neem oil or insecticidal soap for control
Snails and Slugs: Manual removal or application of snail baits

▍Applications

Culinary Use

The flower buds are eaten as a vegetable, prized for their delicate flavor and texture

Medicinal Use

Traditionally used for digestive issues due to its ability to stimulate bile production

Ecosystem Services

Serves as a nectar source for bees and other pollinators, contributing to biodiversity

Centaurea solstitialis

Image source:https://www.lepetitherboriste.net/photos/centaureedusolstice1.html

▍Morphological Features

Height: Typically 0.3-1 meter tall, but can grow up to 2 meters under favorable conditions
Stem: Erect and branching, often with a winged appearance due to leaf-like structures along the stem
Leaves: Basal leaves are deeply lobed while upper leaves are narrow and undivided; covered with fine hairs giving a grayish tint

Flowers: Bright yellow flowers surrounded by sharp, stiff spines that form a distinctive "star" pattern around the flower head, blooming from late spring through summer
Fruits: Small achenes (seeds) with a pappus for wind dispersal
Roots: Taproot system with lateral roots for efficient water uptake

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Prefers well-drained soils, adaptable to various soil types including sandy and gravelly soils (pH 6.0-7.5)
Germination Temp	15-25℃ (Optimal)
Planting Density	30-40cm between plants, 60-80cm row spacing

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Rust: Apply sulfur-based fungicides as needed
Root Rot: Ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering

Pests

Aphids: Use neem oil or insecticidal soap for control
Spider Mites: Control by increasing humidity and using insecticidal soap or neem oil

▍Applications

Invasive Species

Despite its ornamental value, Centaurea solstitialis is considered an invasive species in many parts of the world, where it outcompetes native vegetation.

Ecosystem Impact

It can significantly alter natural habitats, reducing biodiversity and changing fire regimes due to its high flammability when dry.

Historical Uses

Traditionally used in some regions for medicinal purposes, though caution should be exercised due to potential toxicity.

Chrysanthemum lavandulifolium

Image source:https://www.xiaohuasheng.cn/blog/764a04de9bfdaa09

▍Morphological Features

Height: Typically 0.3-1 meter tall, but can reach up to 1.5 meters in optimal conditions

Stem: Erect and branching, often covered with fine hairs or a woolly texture
Leaves: Narrow, linear to lanceolate, resembling lavender leaves, grayish-green in color, and alternately arranged along the stem

Flowers: Small daisy-like flowers, usually white or pale yellow, appearing in clusters at the ends of branches, blooming from late spring to early summer
Fruits: Tiny achenes without pappus, dispersed by wind or animals
Roots: Fibrous root system that supports growth and spread

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Well-drained loam or sandy soil; tolerant of poor soils (pH 6.0-7.5)
Germination Temp	18-22℃ (Optimal)
Planting Density	30-40cm between plants, 60-70cm row spacing

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Rust: Apply appropriate fungicides as needed and ensure good air circulation
Root Rot: Ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering

Pests

Aphids: Use neem oil or insecticidal soap for control
Spider Mites: Control by increasing humidity and using insecticidal soap or neem oil

▍Applications

Medicinal Use

Traditionally used in herbal medicine for its anti-inflammatory properties and to treat colds and headaches

Landscape Design

Used in borders, rock gardens, or as ground cover due to its attractive foliage and flowers

Cultural Significance

Valued in traditional Chinese medicine and has cultural importance in certain regions for its medicinal uses

Chrysanthemum makinoi

Image source:http://wildplantsshimane.jp/Plates/Chrysanthemum_makinoi.htm

▍Morphological Features

Height: Typically 0.3-0.6 meters tall, forming compact mounds or low-growing mats
Stem: Multiple branching stems that are often woody at the base, covered with fine hairs
Leaves: Small, ovate to elliptical leaves, dark green in color, with slightly serrated edges; arranged alternately along the stem

Flowers: Small, daisy-like flowers with white or pale yellow ray florets and a yellow center disk, blooming from late spring to early summer
Fruits: Tiny achenes without pappus, dispersed by wind or animals
Roots: Shallow but dense root system, aiding in stability and nutrient absorption

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Well-drained sandy loam or loam soil, prefers neutral to slightly acidic soil (pH 6.0-7.0)
Germination Temp	18-22℃ (Optimal)
Planting Density	20-30cm between plants, 40-50cm row spacing for mass planting

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Fungal Diseases: Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering; apply fungicides as needed
Root Rot: Improve drainage and avoid overwatering

Pests

Aphids: Use neem oil or insecticidal soap for control
Spider Mites: Increase humidity around plants and use appropriate pesticides

▍Applications

Landscape Design

Ideal for borders, rock gardens, and ground cover due to its compact size and attractive foliage

Erosion Control

Its dense growth habit makes it useful for stabilizing slopes and preventing soil erosion

Cultural Significance

While not widely known outside of its native habitat, it holds potential for traditional uses and ornamental gardening

Chrysanthemum morifolium

Image source:https://www.cramer.ca/fr/plantes/chrysanthemum-morifolium-5/

▍Morphological Features

Height: Ranges from 0.5 to 1 meter, but can be pruned or trained to different shapes and sizes
Stem: Upright and branching, often with a woody base; covered in fine hairs or glabrous depending on variety
Leaves: Broadly ovate to lanceolate, deeply lobed or toothed, dark green and somewhat glossy, arranged alternately along the stem

Flowers: Large, showy blooms available in various colors including yellow, white, red, purple, and pink. Flowers are composite, consisting of ray florets surrounding disc florets
Fruits: Tiny achenes without pappus, dispersed by wind or animals
Roots: Fibrous root system that is relatively shallow but extensive for nutrient uptake

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Well-drained loam or sandy loam soil with high organic matter content (pH 6.5-7.5)
Germination Temp	20-25℃ (Optimal)
Planting Density	30-50cm between plants, 60-90cm row spacing depending on desired size and shape

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Gray Mold (Botrytis): Ensure good air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and use fungicides if necessary
Rust: Apply sulfur-based fungicides as needed and ensure proper plant hygiene

Pests

Aphids: Use neem oil or insecticidal soap for control
Spider Mites: Increase humidity around plants and use appropriate pesticides

▍Applications

Cultural Significance

Highly valued in Chinese culture, particularly during the Double Ninth Festival, symbolizing longevity and vitality

Medicinal Uses

Used in traditional Chinese medicine for its cooling properties and ability to treat eye diseases, headaches, and other ailments

Landscape Design

Widely used in gardens and landscaping due to its beautiful flowers, making it perfect for borders, beds, and containers

Chrysanthemum nankingense

Image source:https://www.labouichere.com/product-page/chrysanthemum-nankingense

▍Morphological Features

Height: Typically 0.5 to 1 meter tall, but can be pruned for desired height and shape
Stem: Upright and branching, often with a woody base; may have fine hairs or be smooth depending on the variety
Leaves: Lobed or toothed leaves, medium green in color, arranged alternately along the stem

Flowers: Small to medium-sized daisy-like flowers, typically white or pale yellow with yellow centers, blooming from late summer to autumn
Fruits: Tiny achenes without pappus, dispersed by wind or animals
Roots: Fibrous root system that is relatively shallow but spreads widely to support growth

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Well-drained loam or sandy soil enriched with organic matter (pH 6.0-7.5)
Germination Temp	20-25℃ (Optimal)
Planting Density	40-50cm between plants, 60-80cm row spacing for optimal growth

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Fungal Diseases: Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering; use fungicides as necessary
Root Rot: Ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering

Pests

Aphids: Use neem oil or insecticidal soap for control
Spider Mites: Control by increasing humidity and using appropriate pesticides

▍Applications

Landscape Design

Used in borders, rock gardens, and naturalistic settings due to its attractive foliage and long-lasting blooms

Medicinal Uses

Traditionally valued in Chinese medicine for treating various ailments including colds, headaches, and eye problems

Cultural Significance

Has historical significance in China, particularly associated with the city of Nanjing and its cultural heritage

Cichorium intybus

Image source:https://mywildflowers.com/detail.asp?photo=2019/mtr205

▍Morphological Features

Height: Typically 30-100 cm tall, with some varieties growing taller under favorable conditions
Stem: Erect and branching, often tinged with purple or red; covered with small hairs
Leaves: Basal leaves are large, lobed or toothed, while stem leaves are smaller and less divided. Leaves are dark green and have a slightly bitter taste

Flowers: Bright blue flowers, occasionally white or pink, arranged in solitary heads on long stalks. Blooms from July to October
Fruits: Small achenes (often referred to as seeds), dispersed by wind
Roots: Deep taproot that can reach depths of up to 2 meters, aiding in drought tolerance

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Well-drained soils, prefers loamy or sandy soils but adaptable to various soil types (pH 5.5-7.5)
Germination Temp	15-20℃ (Optimal)
Planting Density	30-40cm between plants, 60-90cm row spacing for optimal growth

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Rust: Use fungicides as needed and ensure good air circulation around plants
Root Rot: Improve drainage and avoid overwatering

Pests

Aphids: Use neem oil or insecticidal soap for control
Snails and Slugs: Manual removal or application of snail baits

▍Applications

Culinary Uses

Used as a salad vegetable, particularly the young leaves which are less bitter. Roots are roasted and used as a coffee substitute

Medicinal Uses

Traditionally used to treat digestive issues, liver problems, and as a general tonic due to its high inulin content

Ecosystem Services

Serves as an important nectar source for bees and other pollinators, contributing to biodiversity

Cichorium endivia

Image source:https://www.wildfind.com/pflanzen/endivie

▍Morphological Features

Height: Typically grows to about 30-60 cm tall, with a compact growth habit
Stem: Upright and branching, often with a smooth surface
Leaves: Leaves are deeply lobed or finely divided, depending on the variety. The color ranges from light green to dark green, sometimes with red tinges

Flowers: Small, blue flowers similar to other members of the Asteraceae family. Blooming occurs in the second year if grown as a biennial
Fruits: Achenes (often called seeds), which are dispersed by wind
Roots: Taproot system that is relatively shallow compared to its wild relatives

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Well-drained soil rich in organic matter; prefers slightly acidic to neutral soils (pH 6.0-7.0)
Germination Temp	18-22℃ (Optimal)
Planting Density	20-30cm between plants, 40-50cm row spacing for optimal growth

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Downy Mildew: Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering; apply fungicides as necessary
Rust: Apply sulfur-based fungicides and ensure proper plant hygiene

Pests

Aphids: Use neem oil or insecticidal soap for control
Cabbage Worms: Handpick or use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) products

▍Applications

Culinary Uses

Popular in salads for its slightly bitter taste and crunchy texture; can be cooked as well, offering a more mild flavor

Nutritional Value

High in fiber, vitamins A and K, and antioxidants, making it a healthy addition to any diet

Ecosystem Services

Can attract beneficial insects like bees and butterflies, supporting local pollinator populations

Chrysanthemum indicum

Image source:https://tracuuduoclieu.vn/chrysanthemum-indicum-l.html

▍Morphological Features

Height: Typically grows from 30 to 100 cm tall, forming a bushy shape.

Stem: Erect and branching, covered with fine hairs or glabrous depending on the variety.
Leaves: Pinnately divided leaves that are dark green in color, with each lobe being ovate to lanceolate.

Flowers: Small daisy-like flowers, usually yellow but can also be white. Blooms appear in late summer to autumn, growing in clusters at the end of branches.
Fruits: Tiny achenes without pappus, dispersed by wind or animals.
Roots: Fibrous root system that supports growth and spread.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Well-drained loam or sandy soil; tolerates poor soils (pH 6.0-7.5)
Germination Temp	18-22℃ (Optimal)
Planting Density	30-40cm between plants, 60-70cm row spacing for mass planting

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Fungal Diseases: Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering; apply fungicides as needed
Root Rot: Improve drainage and avoid overwatering

Pests

Aphids: Use neem oil or insecticidal soap for control
Spider Mites: Increase humidity around plants and use appropriate pesticides

▍Applications

Medicinal Use

Traditionally used in herbal medicine for its anti-inflammatory properties and to treat colds, fever, and other ailments.

Landscape Design

Used in borders, wild gardens, or naturalistic settings due to its attractive foliage and flowers.

Cultural Significance

Valued in traditional Chinese medicine and has cultural importance in certain regions for its medicinal uses.

Cosmos bipinnatus

Image source:https://www.publicdomainpictures.net/en/view-image.php?image=471480&picture=cosmos-bipinnatus

▍Morphological Features

Height: Typically grows from 0.3 to 2 meters tall, depending on the variety and growing conditions.

Stem: Upright and branching stems that are somewhat hairy.
Leaves: Pinnately divided leaves that are finely cut into linear segments, giving them a delicate appearance.

Flowers: Daisy-like flowers in a wide range of colors including white, pink, red, and purple with yellow centers. Blooms appear from early summer until the first frost.
Fruits: Small achenes without pappus, dispersed by wind or animals.
Roots: Fibrous root system supporting its upright growth.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Well-drained soil; adaptable to various soil types but prefers slightly acidic to neutral soils (pH 6.0-7.0).
Germination Temp	18-24℃ (Optimal)
Planting Density	30-45cm between plants, 45-60cm row spacing for optimal growth and air circulation.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Fungal Diseases: Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering; apply fungicides as necessary.
Viral Diseases: Control aphids which can transmit viruses; remove infected plants promptly.

Pests

Aphids: Use neem oil or insecticidal soap for control.
Leaf Miners: Remove affected leaves and use appropriate pesticides if infestation is severe.

▍Applications

Landscape Design

Ideal for borders, beds, wildflower gardens, and as cut flowers due to their long blooming period and vibrant colors.

Ecological Value

Attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies, contributing to biodiversity in the garden.

Cultural Significance

Often used in cultural celebrations and floral decorations around the world for its beauty and symbolism of order, peace, and tranquility.

Centrapalus pauciflorus

Image source: Internet. Removed if infringing.

▍Morphological Features

Height: Typically grows from 0.5 to 1 meter tall, but can reach up to 2 meters under optimal conditions.
Stem: Upright and branched stems, often covered with fine hairs giving them a rough texture.
Leaves: Narrow, lance-shaped leaves that are alternately arranged along the stem, typically dark green in color.

Flowers: Small purple flowers grouped into dense clusters or heads, blooming mainly during late summer to early autumn.
Fruits: Tiny achenes with pappus attached for wind dispersal.
Roots: Deep taproot system which helps it survive in various environmental conditions.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Prefers well-drained soils; adaptable to sandy or loamy soil types (pH 6.0-7.5).
Germination Temp	20-25℃ (Optimal)
Planting Density	40-50cm between plants, 60-80cm row spacing for best growth and flowering.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Fungal Diseases: Ensure good air circulation around the plants and avoid overhead watering; apply fungicides if necessary.
Root Rot: Improve drainage and avoid overwatering.

Pests

Aphids: Use neem oil or insecticidal soap for control.
Spider Mites: Increase humidity around plants and use appropriate pesticides.

▍Applications

Landscape Design

Suitable for wild gardens, borders, and naturalistic settings due to its attractive purple blooms and ability to attract pollinators.

Medicinal Uses

Traditionally used in herbal medicine for treating digestive issues and skin ailments due to its anti-inflammatory properties.

Ecosystem Services

Serves as an important nectar source for bees and butterflies, contributing positively to local biodiversity.

Dahlia pinnata

Image source:https://worldoffloweringplants.com/dahlia-pinnata-garden-dahlia/

▍Morphological Features

Height: Ranges from 30 cm to over 1.5 meters tall, depending on the variety.

Stem: Upright and sturdy, often with a branching habit that supports multiple flowers.
Leaves: Pinnate leaves composed of numerous leaflets, which are usually dark green and slightly hairy.

Flowers: Large, showy blooms in a wide range of colors including red, pink, orange, yellow, white, and bi-colors. Flower shapes vary widely from simple daisy-like forms to complex cactus types.
Fruits: Small dry fruits known as achenes, typically dispersed by wind or animals.
Roots: Tuberous roots that store nutrients for growth during the next season.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Rich, well-drained soil; prefers loamy soils (pH 6.0-7.0).
Germination Temp	20-25℃ (Optimal)
Planting Density	45-60cm between plants, 60-90cm row spacing for optimal growth and air circulation.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Fungal Diseases: Ensure good air circulation around the plants and avoid overhead watering; apply fungicides if necessary.
Viral Diseases: Control aphids which can transmit viruses; remove infected plants promptly.

Pests

Aphids: Use neem oil or insecticidal soap for control.
Thrips: Monitor regularly and use appropriate pesticides if necessary.

▍Applications

Garden Design

Popular for garden beds, borders, and containers due to its spectacular blooms and varied flower forms.

Cut Flowers

Widely used in floral arrangements because of their long vase life and vibrant colors.

Ecosystem Services

Attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies, contributing positively to local biodiversity.

Deinandra increscens

Image source:https://calphotos.berkeley.edu/cgi/img_query?enlarge=0000+0000+1103+0225

▍Morphological Features

Height: Typically grows from 30 cm to 1 meter tall, depending on environmental conditions.
Stem: Upright and branching stems that are typically green but can have a reddish hue in some varieties.
Leaves: Narrow, linear leaves that are usually covered with fine hairs, giving them a slightly rough texture.

Flowers: Bright yellow flowers that are daisy-like, with a darker center. Blooms appear mainly during late spring through summer.
Fruits: Small achenes without pappus, dispersed by wind or animals.
Roots: Fibrous root system that helps it thrive in various soil types.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Adaptable to a variety of soils including sandy and loamy; prefers well-drained soils (pH 6.0-7.5).
Germination Temp	18-22℃ (Optimal)
Planting Density	20-30cm between plants, 40-50cm row spacing for optimal growth and flowering.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Fungal Diseases: Ensure good air circulation around the plants and avoid overhead watering; apply fungicides if necessary.
Root Rot: Improve drainage and avoid overwatering.

Pests

Aphids: Use neem oil or insecticidal soap for control.
Spider Mites: Increase humidity around plants and use appropriate pesticides.

▍Applications

Landscape Design

Ideal for wild gardens, borders, and naturalistic settings due to its bright yellow blooms and ability to attract pollinators.

Ecosystem Services

Provides an important nectar source for bees and butterflies, enhancing local biodiversity.

Restoration Projects

Used in habitat restoration projects due to its adaptability and ecological benefits.

Erigeron canadensis

Image source:https://gobotany.nativeplanttrust.org/species/erigeron/canadensis/

▍Morphological Features

Height: Typically grows from 30 cm to 2 meters tall, depending on growing conditions.
Stem: Upright and branched stems that are often covered with fine hairs, giving them a rough texture.
Leaves: Alternate, lance-shaped leaves with serrated edges; lower leaves may be more rounded and larger than upper leaves.

Flowers: Small daisy-like flowers with white or pale pink ray florets surrounding a yellow disk center. Blooms appear throughout summer into fall.
Fruits: Tiny achenes without pappus, dispersed by wind or animals.
Roots: Fibrous root system that supports its rapid growth.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Adaptable to various soil types including poor soils; prefers well-drained soils (pH 6.0-7.5).
Germination Temp	18-22℃ (Optimal)
Planting Density	20-30cm between plants, 40-50cm row spacing for optimal growth and flowering.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Fungal Diseases: Ensure good air circulation around the plants and avoid overhead watering; apply fungicides if necessary.
Root Rot: Improve drainage and avoid overwatering.

Pests

Aphids: Use neem oil or insecticidal soap for control.
Spider Mites: Increase humidity around plants and use appropriate pesticides.

▍Applications

Ecosystem Services

Despite being considered a weed in some regions, it serves as an important nectar source for bees and butterflies, contributing positively to local biodiversity.

Medicinal Uses

Traditionally used in herbal medicine for its anti-inflammatory properties and to treat digestive issues.

Restoration Projects

Due to its adaptability and ability to grow in disturbed areas, it's sometimes used in habitat restoration projects.

Erigeron breviscapus

Image source: Internet. Removed if infringing.

▍Morphological Features

Height: Typically grows from 20 cm to 80 cm tall, with a compact growth habit.

Stem: Upright stems that are often densely covered with fine hairs, giving them a soft texture.
Leaves: Basal rosette of leaves at the base, with stem leaves being smaller and fewer. Leaves are lance-shaped to elliptic, with serrated edges.

Flowers: Small, daisy-like flowers with purple or lavender ray florets surrounding a yellow disk center. Blooms appear in late spring through summer.
Fruits: Tiny achenes without pappus, dispersed by wind or animals.
Roots: Fibrous root system that supports its growth in various conditions.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Prefers well-drained soils; adaptable to sandy, loamy soil types (pH 6.0-7.5).
Germination Temp	15-20℃ (Optimal)
Planting Density	30-40cm between plants, 50-60cm row spacing for optimal growth and flowering.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Fungal Diseases: Ensure good air circulation around the plants and avoid overhead watering; apply fungicides if necessary.
Root Rot: Improve drainage and avoid overwatering.

Pests

Aphids: Use neem oil or insecticidal soap for control.
Spider Mites: Increase humidity around plants and use appropriate pesticides.

▍Applications

Landscape Design

Suitable for borders, wild gardens, and naturalistic settings due to its attractive purple blooms and ability to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Medicinal Uses

Traditionally used in Chinese herbal medicine for its cardiovascular benefits, particularly in improving blood circulation and treating cerebrovascular diseases.

Ecosystem Services

Serves as an important nectar source for local pollinators, contributing positively to biodiversity.

Euptelea pleiosperma

Image source:https://baike.sogou.com/v38531.htm

▍Morphological Features

Height: Can grow up to 10 meters tall, forming a small tree or large shrub.
Stem: Smooth bark with a greyish-brown color; young branches are often reddish-brown and smooth.
Leaves: Deciduous, alternate leaves that are broadly ovate to elliptic in shape. The edges are finely serrated, and the surface is glossy green above and lighter underneath.

Flowers: Small, greenish-yellow flowers appear before the leaves in early spring. Flowers are unisexual on separate plants (dioecious).
Fruits: Small, winged samaras that are dispersed by wind, aiding in the plant's reproduction.
Roots: A well-developed root system that helps it thrive in moist environments.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Thrives in moist but well-drained soils; prefers loamy soil types rich in organic matter (pH 6.0-7.5).
Germination Temp	18-22℃ (Optimal)
Planting Density	Space plants about 3-4 meters apart for optimal growth and air circulation.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Fungal Diseases: Ensure good air circulation around the plants and avoid overhead watering; apply fungicides if necessary.
Root Rot: Improve drainage and avoid waterlogged conditions.

Pests

Caterpillars: Monitor regularly and use appropriate pesticides if infestation occurs.
Leaf Miners: Remove affected leaves and use insecticides as needed.

▍Applications

Landscape Design

Suitable for woodland gardens, naturalistic settings, and as a specimen tree due to its attractive foliage and early spring blooms.

Ecosystem Services

Provides habitat and food for wildlife, including birds which eat its seeds. Also contributes to biodiversity in forest ecosystems.

Conservation Value

As a rare species, conservation efforts are important to protect its natural habitats and genetic diversity.

Flaveria bidentis

Image source:http://publish.plantnet-project.org/project/plantinvasivekruger/collection/collection/synthese/taxo_view_gallery/Asteraceae%20-%20Flaveria%20bidentis%20(L.)%20Kuntze/page2

▍Morphological Features

Height: Typically grows from 30 cm to 1.5 meters tall, depending on environmental conditions.
Stem: Upright stems that can be branched or unbranched, covered with fine hairs.
Leaves: Opposite leaves that are lanceolate to elliptical in shape, often serrated along the edges, and have a characteristic pair of teeth near the base.

Flowers: Small yellow flowers arranged in dense clusters at the top of the stems. Blooms appear during late summer through fall.
Fruits: Tiny achenes without pappus, dispersed by wind or animals.
Roots: Fibrous root system that helps it thrive in disturbed areas and various soil types.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Adaptable to various soil types including poor soils; prefers well-drained soils (pH 6.0-7.5).
Germination Temp	20-25℃ (Optimal)
Planting Density	30-50cm between plants, 60-80cm row spacing for optimal growth and flowering.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Fungal Diseases: Ensure good air circulation around the plants and avoid overhead watering; apply fungicides if necessary.
Root Rot: Improve drainage and avoid waterlogged conditions.

Pests

Aphids: Use neem oil or insecticidal soap for control.
Caterpillars: Monitor regularly and use appropriate pesticides if infestation occurs.

▍Applications

Ecosystem Services

Despite being considered an invasive species in some regions, it provides an important nectar source for bees and other pollinators, contributing positively to local biodiversity.

Phytoremediation

Due to its ability to grow in disturbed areas and tolerate harsh conditions, it has potential uses in phytoremediation projects.

Research Value

Used in scientific research for studying C4 photosynthesis pathways due to its unique biochemical properties.

Flaveria brownii

Image source:https://dunescience.com/flaveria-brownii/

▍Morphological Features

Height: Grows up to 1 meter tall, forming a compact bushy appearance.
Stem: Erect stems that are branched near the top, covered with fine hairs giving them a slightly rough texture.
Leaves: Opposite leaves that are lanceolate to elliptical in shape, often serrated along the edges. Leaves are usually green and can be somewhat hairy.

Flowers: Small yellow flowers arranged in dense clusters at the tops of the stems. Blooms appear from late spring through early fall.
Fruits: Tiny achenes without pappus, dispersed by wind or animals.
Roots: Fibrous root system that helps it thrive in various soil types and conditions.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Adaptable to different soil types including sandy soils; prefers well-drained soils (pH 6.0-7.5).
Germination Temp	20-25℃ (Optimal)
Planting Density	30-40cm between plants, 50-60cm row spacing for optimal growth and flowering.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Fungal Diseases: Ensure good air circulation around the plants and avoid overhead watering; apply fungicides if necessary.
Root Rot: Improve drainage and avoid overwatering.

Pests

Aphids: Use neem oil or insecticidal soap for control.
Caterpillars: Monitor regularly and use appropriate pesticides if infestation occurs.

▍Applications

Landscape Design

Suitable for wild gardens, borders, and naturalistic settings due to its bright yellow blooms and ability to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Ecosystem Services

Provides an important nectar source for bees and other pollinators, enhancing local biodiversity.

Scientific Research

Used in scientific studies focusing on C4 photosynthesis pathways and adaptation mechanisms due to its unique biochemical properties.

Flaveria floridana

Image source:https://www.fnps.org/plant/flaveria-linearis

▍Morphological Features

Height: Typically grows from 30 cm to 1 meter tall, forming a relatively compact bush.
Stem: Upright stems that are often branched near the top, covered with fine hairs giving them a slightly rough texture.
Leaves: Opposite leaves that are lanceolate to elliptical in shape, with serrated edges. The leaves are usually green and can be hairy or smooth depending on the variety.

Flowers: Small, bright yellow flowers arranged in dense clusters at the tops of the stems. Blooms appear throughout spring and summer.
Fruits: Tiny achenes without pappus, dispersed by wind or animals.
Roots: A fibrous root system that supports its growth in various soil conditions.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Adaptable to various soil types but prefers well-drained soils; tolerates sandy soils (pH 6.0-7.5).
Germination Temp	20-25℃ (Optimal)
Planting Density	25-35cm between plants, 40-50cm row spacing for optimal growth and flowering.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Fungal Diseases: Ensure good air circulation around the plants and avoid overhead watering; apply fungicides if necessary.
Root Rot: Improve drainage and avoid waterlogged conditions.

Pests

Aphids: Use neem oil or insecticidal soap for control.
Caterpillars: Monitor regularly and use appropriate pesticides if infestation occurs.

▍Applications

Landscape Design

Suitable for wild gardens, borders, and naturalistic settings due to its vibrant yellow blooms which attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Ecosystem Services

Serves as an important nectar source for local pollinators, contributing positively to biodiversity.

Research Value

Used in scientific research focusing on C4 photosynthesis pathways due to its unique biochemical properties.

Flaveria linearis

Image source:https://www.uniprot.org/taxonomy/4225

▍Morphological Features

Height: Grows up to 1 meter tall, forming a slender and upright plant.
Stem: Erect stems that are usually unbranched or slightly branched towards the top. They can be smooth or sparsely covered with fine hairs.
Leaves: Narrow leaves, linear to lanceolate in shape, with entire margins. Leaves are typically green and can grow up to 10 cm long.

Flowers: Small yellow flowers arranged in dense clusters at the tops of the stems. Blooms appear from late spring through early fall.
Fruits: Tiny achenes without pappus, dispersed by wind or animals.
Roots: A well-developed fibrous root system that supports its growth in various soil conditions.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Adaptable to different soil types but prefers well-drained soils; tolerates sandy soils (pH 6.0-7.5).
Germination Temp	20-25℃ (Optimal)
Planting Density	20-30cm between plants, 40-50cm row spacing for optimal growth and flowering.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Fungal Diseases: Ensure good air circulation around the plants and avoid overhead watering; apply fungicides if necessary.
Root Rot: Improve drainage and avoid waterlogged conditions.

Pests

Aphids: Use neem oil or insecticidal soap for control.
Caterpillars: Monitor regularly and use appropriate pesticides if infestation occurs.

▍Applications

Landscape Design

Suitable for wild gardens, borders, and naturalistic settings due to its bright yellow blooms which attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Ecosystem Services

Provides an important nectar source for local pollinators, enhancing biodiversity and supporting ecological balance.

Research Value

Used in scientific research focusing on C4 photosynthesis pathways and environmental adaptation mechanisms due to its unique biochemical properties.

Flaveria ramosissima

Image source:http://www.conabio.gob.mx/malezasdemexico/asteraceae/flaveria-ramosissima/fichas/ficha.htm

▍Morphological Features

Height: Can grow up to 1.5 meters tall, forming a multi-branched shrub-like appearance.
Stem: Numerous erect stems that are highly branched, giving the plant its characteristic bushy form. Stems may be smooth or slightly hairy.
Leaves: Narrow leaves that are linear to lanceolate in shape, with entire margins. Leaves can reach lengths of up to 8 cm and are typically arranged oppositely along the stem.

Flowers: Small yellow flowers that are clustered densely at the ends of branches. Blooming period extends from late spring through early fall.
Fruits: Tiny achenes without pappus, dispersed by wind or animals.
Roots: Fibrous root system that helps it thrive in various soil conditions.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Adapts well to different soil types but prefers well-drained soils; tolerates sandy and loamy soils (pH 6.0-7.5).
Germination Temp	20-25℃ (Optimal)
Planting Density	30-40cm between plants, 50-60cm row spacing for optimal growth and flowering.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Fungal Diseases: Ensure good air circulation around the plants and avoid overhead watering; apply fungicides if necessary.
Root Rot: Improve drainage and avoid waterlogged conditions.

Pests

Aphids: Use neem oil or insecticidal soap for control.
Caterpillars: Monitor regularly and use appropriate pesticides if infestation occurs.

▍Applications

Landscape Design

Suitable for wild gardens, borders, and naturalistic settings due to its vibrant yellow blooms which attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Ecosystem Services

Serves as an important nectar source for local pollinators, contributing positively to biodiversity.

Research Value

Used in scientific research focusing on C4 photosynthesis pathways and environmental adaptation mechanisms due to its unique biochemical properties.

Flaveria robusta

Image source: Internet. Removed if infringing.

▍Morphological Features

Height: Typically grows up to 1.2 meters tall, forming a robust and upright plant.
Stem: Strong, erect stems that are usually branched near the top. The stems may be covered with fine hairs.
Leaves: Broad leaves that are lanceolate to elliptical in shape, with serrated margins. Leaves can grow up to 15 cm long and are arranged oppositely along the stem.

Flowers: Small yellow flowers clustered densely at the tops of the stems. Blooming period is from late spring through summer.
Fruits: Tiny achenes without pappus, dispersed by wind or animals.
Roots: A well-developed fibrous root system that supports its growth in various soil conditions.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Adapts well to different soil types but prefers well-drained soils; tolerates sandy and loamy soils (pH 6.0-7.5).
Germination Temp	20-25℃ (Optimal)
Planting Density	35-45cm between plants, 60-70cm row spacing for optimal growth and flowering.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Fungal Diseases: Ensure good air circulation around the plants and avoid overhead watering; apply fungicides if necessary.
Root Rot: Improve drainage and avoid waterlogged conditions.

Pests

Aphids: Use neem oil or insecticidal soap for control.
Caterpillars: Monitor regularly and use appropriate pesticides if infestation occurs.

▍Applications

Landscape Design

Suitable for wild gardens, borders, and naturalistic settings due to its bright yellow blooms which attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Ecosystem Services

Provides an important nectar source for local pollinators, contributing positively to biodiversity.

Research Value

Used in scientific research focusing on C4 photosynthesis pathways and environmental adaptation mechanisms due to its unique biochemical properties.

Flaveria sonorensis

Image source: Internet. Removed if infringing.

▍Morphological Features

Height: Grows up to 1 meter tall, forming a somewhat sprawling or upright plant depending on conditions.
Stem: Stems are typically erect but can be somewhat branched, covered with fine hairs giving them a slightly rough texture.
Leaves: Opposite leaves that are linear to lanceolate in shape, often with entire margins. The leaves are usually green and can reach lengths of up to 10 cm.

Flowers: Small yellow flowers arranged in dense clusters at the tops of the stems. Blooms appear from late spring through early fall.
Fruits: Tiny achenes without pappus, dispersed by wind or animals.

Roots: A fibrous root system that helps it thrive in various soil types and conditions.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Adaptable to different soil types including sandy soils; prefers well-drained soils (pH 6.0-7.5).
Germination Temp	20-25℃ (Optimal)
Planting Density	30-40cm between plants, 50-60cm row spacing for optimal growth and flowering.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Fungal Diseases: Ensure good air circulation around the plants and avoid overhead watering; apply fungicides if necessary.
Root Rot: Improve drainage and avoid overwatering.

Pests

Aphids: Use neem oil or insecticidal soap for control.
Caterpillars: Monitor regularly and use appropriate pesticides if infestation occurs.

▍Applications

Landscape Design

Suitable for wild gardens, borders, and naturalistic settings due to its bright yellow blooms which attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Ecosystem Services

Provides an important nectar source for local pollinators, enhancing biodiversity and supporting ecological balance.

Research Value

Used in scientific research focusing on C4 photosynthesis pathways and environmental adaptation mechanisms due to its unique biochemical properties.

Flaveria trinervia

Image source:https://www.picturethisai.com/fr/wiki/Flaveria_trinervia.html

▍Morphological Features

Height: Can grow up to 1.5 meters tall, forming an upright and branched plant.

Stem: Sturdy stems that are erect and may be branched, especially near the top. The surface of the stems can be smooth or covered with fine hairs.
Leaves: Leaves are lanceolate to elliptical in shape, with distinct three veins running from base to tip. They have serrated margins and are arranged oppositely along the stem.

Flowers: Small yellow flowers gathered in dense clusters at the tops of the stems. Flowering occurs during late spring through summer.
Fruits: Tiny achenes without pappus, dispersed by wind or animals.

Roots: A fibrous root system which helps it adapt to various soil conditions.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Adapts well to different soil types but prefers well-drained soils; tolerates sandy and loamy soils (pH 6.0-7.5).
Germination Temp	20-25℃ (Optimal)
Planting Density	30-40cm between plants, 50-60cm row spacing for optimal growth and flowering.
Propagation Method	Mainly through seeds; direct sowing after the last frost is recommended.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Fungal Diseases: Ensure good air circulation around the plants and avoid overhead watering; apply fungicides if necessary.
Root Rot: Improve drainage and avoid waterlogged conditions.

Pests

Aphids: Use neem oil or insecticidal soap for control.
Caterpillars: Monitor regularly and use appropriate pesticides if infestation occurs.

▍Applications

Landscape Design

Suitable for wild gardens, borders, and naturalistic settings due to its bright yellow blooms which attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Ecosystem Services

Provides an important nectar source for local pollinators, contributing positively to biodiversity.

Research Value

Used in scientific research focusing on C4 photosynthesis pathways and environmental adaptation mechanisms due to its unique biochemical properties.

Glebionis coronaria

Image source:https://www.cal-ipc.org/plants/profile/chrysanthemum-coronarium-profile/

▍Morphological Features

Height: Grows up to 40-80 cm tall, forming a bushy plant with numerous branches.
Stem: Stems are erect and slightly branching. They are often green or with a hint of red, sometimes covered with fine hairs.
Leaves: The leaves are deeply lobed, resembling those of dandelions but larger and greener. They grow in a rosette at the base and along the stem.

Flowers: Large, showy flowers that are typically yellow, appearing in solitary heads atop long stalks. Flowering occurs from early spring through summer.
Fruits: Small achenes with pappus for wind dispersal.
Roots: A taproot system that can penetrate deep into the soil, aiding in drought tolerance.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Adapts well to various soil types but prefers rich, well-drained loamy soils (pH 6.0-7.5).
Germination Temp	15-20℃ (Optimal)
Planting Density	20-30cm between plants, 40-50cm row spacing for optimal growth and flowering.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Fungal Diseases: Ensure good air circulation around the plants and avoid overhead watering; apply fungicides if necessary.
Root Rot: Improve drainage and avoid overwatering.

Pests

Aphids: Use neem oil or insecticidal soap for control.
Caterpillars: Monitor regularly and use appropriate pesticides if infestation occurs.

▍Applications

Landscape Design

Suitable for borders, wild gardens, and as cut flowers due to its attractive blooms which attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Ecosystem Services

Provides an important nectar source for local pollinators, enhancing biodiversity and supporting ecological balance.

Edible Uses

Young leaves and stems are edible and commonly used in Asian cuisine, providing a mild, slightly bitter flavor.

Helianthus annuus

Image source:Original work

▍Morphological Features

Height: Can grow up to 3-5 meters tall, but varies greatly depending on variety.

Stem: Sturdy, upright stems that can be hairy and may branch out in some varieties. The stem grows rapidly during the vegetative phase.
Leaves: Large, rough leaves that are heart-shaped at the base and tapering towards the tip. Leaves are arranged alternately along the stem.

Flowers: Iconic large flower heads with bright yellow petals surrounding a brown center disk of florets. Flowering occurs during mid-summer to early fall.
Fruits: Sunflower seeds (achenes) develop within the head after pollination. These seeds vary in size and color depending on the cultivar.
Roots: A strong taproot system that penetrates deep into the soil, aiding in drought resistance.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Thrives in well-drained soils with high organic matter; prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.5).
Germination Temp	18-28℃ (Optimal)
Planting Density	60-90cm between plants, 75-120cm row spacing for optimal growth and flowering.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Fungal Diseases: Ensure good air circulation around the plants and avoid overhead watering; apply fungicides if necessary.
Root Rot: Improve drainage and avoid overwatering.

Pests

Cutworms: Use collars around young seedlings or apply insecticides as needed.
Birds: Protect ripening heads with netting to prevent damage from birds.

▍Applications

Landscape Design

Popular in gardens and landscapes for its striking appearance and ability to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Ecosystem Services

Provides an important nectar source for pollinators and contributes to biodiversity.

Edible Uses

Sunflower seeds are edible and widely used for snacks, oils, and birdseed. They are rich in healthy fats and nutrients.

Helianthus tuberosus

Image source:https://www.florafinder.org/Species/Helianthus_tuberosus.php

▍Morphological Features

Height: Typically grows to a height of 1.5-3 meters, forming tall, sturdy stems.

Stem: Stems are thick and can be hairy, often branching out near the top. They grow rapidly during the vegetative phase.
Leaves: Leaves are large, rough, and have a shape that varies from ovate to heart-shaped with toothed edges. The leaves are arranged alternately along the stem.

Flowers: Flowers resemble small sunflowers, typically yellow in color, appearing in clusters at the end of branches. Blooming occurs late summer to fall.
Fruits: Small achenes similar to those of sunflowers but not commonly harvested for consumption.
Tubers: The edible part is the underground tuber, which is knobby and irregularly shaped. Tubers can vary greatly in size and color depending on the cultivar.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Adapts well to various soil types but prefers loose, well-drained soils rich in organic matter; tolerates slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.5).
Germination Temp	15-20℃ (Optimal)
Planting Density	30-60cm between plants, 90-120cm row spacing for optimal growth and development of tubers.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Fungal Diseases: Ensure good air circulation around the plants and avoid overhead watering; apply fungicides if necessary.
Root Rot: Improve drainage and avoid waterlogged conditions.

Pests

Aphids: Use neem oil or insecticidal soap for control.
Cutworms: Protect young plants by placing collars around them or applying appropriate pesticides.

▍Applications

Landscape Design

Suitable for naturalistic gardens and as windbreaks due to its tall stature and attractive flowers.

Ecosystem Services

Provides an important nectar source for pollinators and contributes to biodiversity.

Edible Uses

The tubers are edible and commonly used in cooking, providing a sweet, nutty flavor. They are also valued for their dietary fiber and health benefits.

Helichrysum umbraculigerum

Image source:https://www.theindigenousgardener.co.za/fullscreen-page/comp-jda3kkf6/ed5f4853-851d-4404-84bc-41e9d2aaae69/9/?i=9&p=tthjs&s=style-japj72oo

▍Morphological Features

Height: Grows up to 1 meter in height, forming a compact and bushy plant.

Stem: Stems are upright and slightly woody, covered with fine hairs which give them a silver-gray appearance.
Leaves: The leaves are narrow and elongated, covered with soft hairs giving the plant a velvety texture. They are arranged alternately along the stem and can vary in color from green to grayish-green.

Flowers: Small, bright yellow flowers that form dense clusters resembling umbrellas, hence its name "umbra-culigerum" meaning "bearing an umbrella". Flowering occurs during late spring to early autumn.
Fruits: Small achenes without pappus, dispersed by wind or animals.

Roots: A fibrous root system which helps it adapt to various soil conditions.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Adapts well to different soil types but prefers well-drained soils; thrives in sandy or loamy soils (pH 6.0-7.5).
Germination Temp	18-22℃ (Optimal)
Planting Density	30-40cm between plants, 50-60cm row spacing for optimal growth and flowering.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Fungal Diseases: Ensure good air circulation around the plants and avoid overhead watering; apply fungicides if necessary.
Root Rot: Improve drainage and avoid overwatering.

Pests

Aphids: Use neem oil or insecticidal soap for control.
Spider Mites: Monitor regularly and use appropriate pesticides if infestation occurs.

▍Applications

Landscape Design

Suitable for borders, rock gardens, and as cut flowers due to its attractive, long-lasting blooms which attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Ecosystem Services

Provides an important nectar source for local pollinators, contributing positively to biodiversity.

Medicinal Uses

Used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory properties and potential benefits for skin health.

Lactuca saligna

Image source:http://wildflowers.clockwork-orrery.com/2017/08/04/lactuca-saligna/

▍Morphological Features

Height: Can grow up to 1.5 meters tall, forming a robust plant with upright stems.

Stem: Stems are usually hollow and branched, covered with fine hairs which give them a slightly rough texture.
Leaves: Leaves are variable in shape, ranging from deeply lobed to entire margins, often narrower than those of garden lettuce. They tend to be more elongated and less succulent.

Flowers: Small, yellow flowers that appear in loose clusters at the top of the plant. Flowering occurs during late spring through summer.
Fruits: The fruits are small achenes equipped with a pappus for wind dispersal.

Roots: A taproot system that can penetrate deep into the soil, aiding in drought tolerance.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Thrives in well-drained soils with high organic matter; prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0).
Germination Temp	15-20℃ (Optimal)
Planting Density	20-30cm between plants, 40-50cm row spacing for optimal growth and flowering.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Fungal Diseases: Ensure good air circulation around the plants and avoid overhead watering; apply fungicides if necessary.
Root Rot: Improve drainage and avoid waterlogged conditions.

Pests

Aphids: Use neem oil or insecticidal soap for control.
Caterpillars: Monitor regularly and use appropriate pesticides if infestation occurs.

▍Applications

Landscape Design

Suitable for naturalistic gardens and as ground cover due to its rapid growth and attractive foliage.

Ecosystem Services

Provides an important nectar source for pollinators like bees and butterflies, contributing positively to biodiversity.

Medicinal Uses

Traditionally used in herbal medicine for its sedative and analgesic properties.

Logfia minima

Image source:https://www.preservons-la-nature.fr/blog/?p=3796

▍Morphological Features

Height: Typically grows to a height of 10-30 cm, forming small, compact plants.

Stem: Thin and erect stems that may branch from the base. They are covered with fine white hairs giving them a woolly appearance.
Leaves: The leaves are narrow and linear, often less than 2 cm in length, densely covered with soft white hairs, making the plant appear fuzzy.

Flowers: Small, pale yellow or white flowers that form at the ends of the branches. Flowering typically occurs in late spring to early summer.
Fruits: The fruits are small achenes without pappus, designed for wind dispersal.

Roots: A shallow root system which is adapted to dry conditions.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Thrives in well-drained soils; prefers sandy or loamy soils (pH 6.0-7.5).
Germination Temp	15-20℃ (Optimal)
Planting Density	15-25cm between plants, suitable for dense planting as ground cover.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Fungal Diseases: Ensure good air circulation around the plants and avoid overhead watering; apply fungicides if necessary.
Root Rot: Improve drainage and avoid waterlogged conditions.

Pests

Aphids: Use neem oil or insecticidal soap for control.
Snails and Slugs: Monitor regularly and use appropriate barriers or baits if needed.

▍Applications

Landscape Design

Suitable for rock gardens, borders, or as ground cover due to its compact size and attractive, woolly texture.

Ecosystem Services

Provides habitat and nectar for pollinators such as bees and butterflies, enhancing biodiversity.

Environmental Uses

Due to its drought tolerance and ability to grow in poor soils, it can be used in restoration projects or erosion control on slopes.

Lactuca sativa

Image source:https://www.dearplants.com/how-to-plant-lettuce/

▍Morphological Features

Height: Varies greatly depending on the variety, typically ranging from 15 to 30 cm for head lettuces and up to 60 cm for loose-leaf varieties.

Stem: Short stem in most cultivated varieties; however, bolting varieties develop a longer flowering stem.
Leaves: The leaves are the main edible part of the plant. They can be smooth or crinkled, green or red in color, and vary in shape from oblong to round depending on the cultivar.

Flowers: Small, yellow flowers appear in clusters when the plant bolts. These are less commonly seen in cultivation as lettuce is usually harvested before it reaches this stage.
Fruits: Small achenes without pappus, similar to those of other members of the Asteraceae family.

Roots: A shallow fibrous root system that prefers consistent moisture but not waterlogged soil.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Thrives in well-drained soils with high organic matter content; prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0).
Germination Temp	18-22℃ (Optimal)
Planting Density	Depends on variety, but generally 20-30cm between plants for head types and closer spacing for loose-leaf varieties.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Fungal Diseases: Ensure good air circulation around the plants and avoid overhead watering; apply fungicides if necessary.
Downy Mildew: Use resistant varieties and maintain proper plant spacing.

Pests

Aphids: Use neem oil or insecticidal soap for control.
Slugs and Snails: Monitor regularly and use appropriate barriers or baits if needed.

▍Applications

Culinary Uses

Widely used in salads, sandwiches, wraps, and garnishes due to its mild flavor and crisp texture. Different varieties offer different flavors and textures.

Nutritional Value

Rich in vitamins A and K, dietary fiber, and antioxidants. It's low in calories, making it an excellent choice for health-conscious diets.

Commercial Production

One of the most widely cultivated leafy vegetables globally, with significant commercial importance in fresh produce markets.

Mikania micrantha

Image source:https://housing.com/news/all-about-mikania-micrantha/

▍Morphological Features

Height: Can grow up to 5 meters or more in height, forming dense thickets that can smother other vegetation.

Stem: Slender, twining stems that are green when young and turn brown with age. They are capable of rapid growth and climbing over other plants.
Leaves: Heart-shaped leaves with serrated margins, typically measuring 3-10 cm long and 2-7 cm wide. The leaves are arranged oppositely along the stem.

Flowers: Small, white flowers about 4-6 mm in diameter, grouped in clusters at the end of branches. Flowering occurs year-round in tropical climates.
Fruits: Small achenes equipped with fine bristles (pappus), aiding in wind dispersal.

Roots: Shallow root system that helps it quickly establish in disturbed areas.

▍Cultivation Methods

Note: Mikania micrantha is considered an invasive species in many regions. Planting should be avoided outside controlled environments where eradication or management is intended.

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Grows in a variety of soil types but prefers moist, well-drained soils; can tolerate poor soil conditions.
Germination Temp	20-30℃ (Optimal)

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Mikania micrantha is relatively resistant to diseases due to its vigorous growth habit. However, in managed settings, fungal infections may occur under certain conditions.

Pests

While not usually affected by pests, some insects might feed on its foliage in its native range. Biological control agents have been studied for managing this invasive plant.

▍Applications

Ecological Impact

Despite being an invasive species, it has been studied for its potential use in phytoremediation projects due to its ability to rapidly cover and stabilize disturbed soils.

Medicinal Uses

In traditional medicine in some parts of its native range, it has been used for treating various ailments, including skin diseases and wounds.

Research

Due to its invasive nature, much research focuses on understanding its biology and developing effective control strategies.

Nelumbo nucifera

Image source:http://www.walliscreekwatergarden.com.au/products-page/lotus/nelumbo-nucifera-sunburst/

▍Morphological Features

Height: Emergent parts can reach up to 1.8 meters in height, with leaves and flowers floating or rising above the water surface.

Stem: Sturdy, hollow stems that allow leaves and flowers to rise above water; connected to a robust rhizome system.
Leaves: Large, circular leaves ranging from 20 to 90 cm in diameter, featuring a hydrophobic surface which causes water droplets to bead up and roll off.

Flowers: Highly ornamental flowers in various colors including white, pink, red, and yellow. Flowers bloom for about three days during summer to early autumn.
Fruits: After flowering, a conical fruit pod forms containing seeds. These seeds are known for their longevity and viability.
Roots: A thick rhizome system that grows in the mud at the bottom of ponds or slow-moving waters.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Thrives in rich, loamy soil with good drainage; prefers aquatic environments such as ponds or slow-moving waters (pH 6.0-7.5).
Water Depth	Optimal water depth varies by variety but typically ranges from 30 to 90 cm. Shallower depths may be suitable for smaller varieties.
Planting Density	Depends on variety, but generally spacing should allow each plant enough room to grow without overcrowding, approximately 1 to 2 meters apart.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Fungal Diseases: Ensure proper air circulation around plants and avoid overhead watering; apply fungicides if necessary.
Rhizome Rot: Improve water circulation and avoid stagnant water conditions.

Pests

Aphids: Use neem oil or insecticidal soap for control.
Snails and Slugs: Monitor regularly and use appropriate barriers or baits if needed.

▍Applications

Ornamental Uses

Widely used in gardens and water features for its beautiful flowers and foliage, symbolizing purity and enlightenment in many cultures.

Cultural Significance

In Asian cultures, especially in Buddhism and Hinduism, the lotus represents spiritual purity and rebirth. It is often depicted in art and literature.

Medicinal and Culinary Uses

All parts of the plant have been used in traditional medicine and cuisine. Seeds, roots, and leaves are consumed for their nutritional value and health benefits.

Nymphoides indica

Image source:https://www.floridaaquatic.com/nymphoides-indica

▍Morphological Features

Height: Typically grows to about 5-10 cm above water level, with floating leaves that can spread up to 30 cm in diameter.

Stem: Short stems or stolons that float on the water surface or just beneath it, from which roots and leaves emerge.
Leaves: Rounded to slightly heart-shaped leaves, approximately 2-8 cm in diameter, with a smooth texture and glossy appearance. Leaves are borne on long petioles that arise directly from the rhizome.

Flowers: Small white flowers with five petals, each petal deeply notched at the tip, giving the flower a fringed look. Flowers bloom during summer months.
Fruits: Capsules containing numerous small seeds, dispersed by water currents.

Roots: Fine root system that anchors the plant into the substrate while also absorbing nutrients from the water.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Prefers loamy or clayey soils rich in organic matter; thrives in shallow waters (up to 30 cm deep).
Water Depth	Optimal depth is between 10 to 30 cm, but can tolerate deeper waters for short periods.
Planting Density	For best coverage, space plants about 20-30 cm apart, allowing enough room for growth.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Fungal Diseases: Avoid overcrowding and ensure good air circulation around the plants; apply fungicides if necessary.

Pests

Aphids: Use neem oil or insecticidal soap for control.
Snails and Slugs: Monitor regularly and use appropriate barriers or baits if needed.

▍Applications

Ornamental Uses

Popularly used in garden ponds and water features for its attractive foliage and delicate white flowers, providing aesthetic appeal.

Ecosystem Services

Helps improve water quality by absorbing excess nutrients and provides habitat for aquatic organisms.

Medicinal Uses

In some regions, parts of the plant have been traditionally used for medicinal purposes, although scientific evidence may be limited.

Pulicaria dysenterica

Image source:http://www.freenatureimages.eu/Plants/Flora%20O-R/Pulicaria%20dysenterica,%20Common%20Fleabane/index.html

▍Morphological Features

Height: Grows up to 30-100 cm tall, forming upright stems that are often branched.

Stem: Erect, sometimes woody at the base, with fine hairs covering its surface.
Leaves: Alternate leaves are lanceolate to oblong in shape, measuring around 2-8 cm long. The edges of the leaves can be smooth or slightly toothed.

Flowers: Small yellow flowers appear in clusters at the top of the stems during summer and autumn. Each flower is about 5-10 mm wide, with ray florets surrounding disc florets.
Fruits: Achenes (dry, one-seeded fruits) are small and typically dispersed by wind.
Roots: Fibrous root system that supports the plant in various soil conditions.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Adaptable to a range of soils, but prefers well-drained loamy soils. It can tolerate poor soil conditions.
Germination Temp	Optimal germination occurs between 15-20℃.
Planting Density	For best growth, space plants about 30-50 cm apart to ensure adequate air circulation and sunlight exposure.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Fungal Diseases: Maintain good air circulation and avoid overwatering to prevent fungal infections; apply fungicides if necessary.

Pests

Aphids: Use neem oil or insecticidal soap for control.
Leaf Miners: Remove affected leaves and use appropriate pesticides if infestation is severe.

▍Applications

Medicinal Uses

Traditionally used in herbal medicine to treat diarrhea and other digestive issues due to its reported anti-inflammatory properties.

Ecosystem Services

Provides nectar and pollen for pollinators like bees and butterflies, supporting local biodiversity.

Research

Due to its medicinal potential, there is ongoing research into understanding its active compounds and their effects on human health.

Pluchea indica

Image source:https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/showimage/170258/

▍Morphological Features

Height: Can grow up to 1-2 meters tall, with a robust and erect growth habit.

Stem: Stems are usually purple or reddish in color, especially when exposed to sunlight, and are covered with fine hairs.
Leaves: Leaves are lanceolate to oblong, ranging from 8-20 cm long. The upper surface is green while the underside is typically purplish, giving it its common name "Purple Back."

Flowers: Small pinkish to purplish flowers appear in dense clusters at the top of stems during summer and autumn. Flowers have a pleasant fragrance.
Fruits: Achenes (dry, one-seeded fruits) are small and dispersed by wind.

Roots: Strong root system that helps stabilize the plant in various soil conditions.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Adaptable to a wide range of soils but prefers well-drained loamy soils. It can tolerate poor soil conditions.
Water Requirement	Moderate water needs; prefers moist soils but can withstand short periods of drought.
Planting Density	For optimal growth, space plants about 50-70 cm apart to ensure good air circulation and light penetration.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Fungal Diseases: Ensure proper spacing between plants and avoid overwatering to reduce fungal infection risks.

Pests

Aphids: Use neem oil or insecticidal soap for control.
Spider Mites: Regularly inspect leaves and apply appropriate pesticides if necessary.

▍Applications

Medicinal Uses

Used in traditional medicine for treating various ailments including fever, cough, and inflammation due to its anti-inflammatory and antipyretic properties.

Ecosystem Services

Provides habitat and food source for pollinators like bees and butterflies, contributing positively to local biodiversity.

Ornamental Value

Its attractive foliage and fragrant flowers make it suitable for ornamental purposes in gardens and landscapes.

Pseudognaphalium luteoalbum

Image source:https://www.inaturalist.org/taxa/53083-Pseudognaphalium-luteoalbum

▍Morphological Features

Height: Typically grows to a height of 30-100 cm, forming an erect stem that is densely covered with white woolly hairs.

Stem: Erect and branching near the top, often becoming woody towards the base. The stems are covered in dense, soft hairs giving it a silvery appearance.
Leaves: Alternate leaves are linear to lanceolate, measuring around 5-15 cm long. The upper surface of the leaf is green but can appear grayish due to the fine hairs covering it.

Flowers: Small yellow flowers form in dense clusters at the tips of branches during late summer to early autumn. Each flower head consists of tubular disc florets surrounded by ray florets.
Fruits: Achenes (dry, one-seeded fruits) are small and have a pappus attached to aid in wind dispersal.

Roots: Fibrous root system that helps the plant establish itself in various soil types.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Prefers well-drained sandy or loamy soils but is adaptable to a range of soil conditions including slightly acidic to neutral pH levels.
Water Requirement	Moderate water needs; prefers moist soils but can tolerate short periods of drought once established.
Planting Density	For optimal growth, space plants about 30-40 cm apart to ensure good air circulation and light penetration.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Fungal Diseases: Avoid overcrowding and ensure good air circulation around the plants; apply fungicides if necessary.

Pests

Aphids: Use neem oil or insecticidal soap for control.
Leaf Miners: Remove affected leaves and use appropriate pesticides if infestation is severe.

▍Applications

Medicinal Uses

Traditionally used in herbal medicine to treat respiratory issues, such as coughs and bronchitis, due to its expectorant properties.

Ecosystem Services

Provides nectar and pollen for pollinators like bees and butterflies, supporting local biodiversity.

Ornamental Value

Its attractive foliage and bright yellow flowers make it suitable for ornamental purposes in gardens and naturalized landscapes.

Saussurea involucrata

Image source:https://www.theplantaide.com/articles/culture-method-of-saussurea-involucrata3.html

▍Morphological Features

Height: Grows up to 15-30 cm in height, adapting to high altitude environments.

Stem: Sturdy and covered with dense white hairs that protect it from harsh weather conditions.
Leaves: Thick, leathery leaves are oblong or lanceolate, typically measuring 5-20 cm long. The leaf edges may be entire or slightly serrated.

Flowers: Purple or pinkish flowers appear in dense clusters surrounded by large, showy bracts, giving the plant its name "involucrata". Flowering occurs during summer months.
Fruits: Small achenes (dry fruits) that are dispersed by wind.
Roots: A thickened root system that helps store nutrients and water for survival in harsh mountainous environments.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Requires well-drained sandy or loamy soils with good organic matter content; prefers neutral to slightly alkaline pH levels.
Altitude Requirement	Grows naturally at altitudes between 2,400 to 4,000 meters above sea level.
Planting Density	For best growth, space plants about 20-30 cm apart to ensure adequate room for expansion and nutrient absorption.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Fungal Diseases: Avoid overwatering and ensure good air circulation around the plants to prevent fungal infections.

Pests

Aphids: Use neem oil or insecticidal soap for control.
Snails and Slugs: Monitor regularly and use appropriate barriers or baits if needed.

▍Applications

Medicinal Uses

Highly valued in traditional medicine for treating various ailments including arthritis, inflammation, and respiratory issues due to its potent anti-inflammatory properties.

Cultural Significance

In many Asian cultures, especially in Tibet and China, Saussurea involucrata is considered sacred and symbolizes purity and endurance under harsh conditions.

Ornamental Value

Due to its unique appearance and rarity, it's also appreciated as an ornamental plant in specialized botanical gardens and collections.

Solidago caesia

Image source:https://mywildflowers.com/detail.asp?photo=ar54

▍Morphological Features

Height: Grows to a height of 60-120 cm, forming an erect and often unbranched stem.

Stem: The distinctive blue-green or purplish stems are smooth and arching, giving the plant its common name "Blue-stemmed Goldenrod".
Leaves: Narrow, lance-shaped leaves measuring about 7-15 cm long. They are arranged alternately along the stem and have serrated edges.

Flowers: Small yellow flowers appear in clusters along one side of curved branches, creating a showy display from late summer into autumn.
Fruits: Tiny achenes (dry fruits) with small tufts of hair aiding in wind dispersal.

Roots: Fibrous root system that helps anchor the plant and absorb nutrients efficiently.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Grows well in most soils but prefers well-drained loamy soil. Tolerates both acidic and alkaline conditions.
Sunlight Requirement	Full sun to partial shade; best flowering occurs in full sunlight.
Water Requirement	Moderate water needs; tolerates drought once established but prefers moist conditions.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Rust: Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to reduce rust incidence. Apply fungicides if necessary.

Pests

Aphids: Use neem oil or insecticidal soap for control.
Spider Mites: Regularly inspect leaves and apply appropriate pesticides if necessary.

▍Applications

Medicinal Uses

Traditionally used for treating wounds and inflammations due to its anti-inflammatory properties. It is also believed to help relieve respiratory issues.

Ecosystem Services

Attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies, supporting local biodiversity. It's also known to stabilize soil on slopes.

Ornamental Value

Its attractive flowers and unique blue-green stems make it a desirable addition to naturalistic gardens and wildflower meadows.

Senecio squalidus

Image source:http://www.dorsetnature.co.uk/pages-flower/wf-18.html

▍Morphological Features

Height: Grows up to 30-80 cm tall, forming an erect and often branched stem.

Stem: The stems are usually green but may have a purplish hue, covered with fine hairs especially near the base.
Leaves: Leaves are deeply lobed or pinnatifid, measuring about 5-15 cm long. They are arranged alternately along the stem and tend to be larger towards the base of the plant.

Flowers: Bright yellow flowers appear in clusters at the tips of branches from spring to early summer. Each flower head is composed of ray florets surrounding disc florets.
Fruits: Small achenes (dry fruits) equipped with a pappus for wind dispersal.

Roots: A fibrous root system that aids in its adaptability to various soil conditions.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Adaptable to most soil types but prefers well-drained soils. Tolerates both acidic and alkaline conditions.
Sunlight Requirement	Full sun to partial shade; best growth and flowering occur in full sunlight.
Water Requirement	Moderate water needs; can tolerate drought once established but performs best in moist conditions.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Rust: Ensure good air circulation around plants and avoid overhead watering to reduce rust incidence.

Pests

Aphids: Use neem oil or insecticidal soap for control.
Caterpillars: Regularly inspect leaves and remove by hand if necessary; use appropriate pesticides if infestation is severe.

▍Applications

Medicinal Uses

Historically used in traditional medicine as a diuretic and for treating skin conditions, though caution is advised due to potential toxicity.

Ecosystem Services

Provides nectar and pollen for pollinators like bees and butterflies, contributing positively to local biodiversity.

Ornamental Value

Its bright yellow flowers make it a suitable choice for naturalizing landscapes and wildflower gardens, especially in areas where other plants might struggle.

Smallanthus sonchifolius

Image source:https://www.vivercid.com/yacon-smallanthus_sonchifolius_-p/

▍Morphological Features

Height: Typically grows to a height of 1.5-3 meters, forming an erect and robust stem.

Stem: Stems are sturdy and can be green or tinged with purple, branching towards the top.
Leaves: Leaves are large, dark green, and deeply lobed, resembling those of dandelions, measuring up to 30 cm long and wide.

Flowers: Small yellow flowers appear in clusters at the ends of branches from late summer into autumn, similar to sunflowers but much smaller.
Fruits: Fruits are small achenes (dry fruits) that contain seeds for propagation.
Tubers: The most valuable part of the plant, tubers grow underground and resemble sweet potatoes. They can reach sizes up to 20 cm long and weigh up to 500 grams each.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Prefers well-drained sandy loam soil rich in organic matter. Soil pH should be between slightly acidic to neutral.
Sunlight Requirement	Requires full sunlight for optimal growth and tuber development.
Water Requirement	Moderate water needs; requires consistent moisture especially during tuber enlargement phase but does not tolerate waterlogged conditions.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Root Rot: Ensure good drainage and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

Pests

Slugs and Snails: Use barriers or baits to control these pests which can damage young plants.
Aphids: Regularly inspect plants and use neem oil or insecticidal soap if aphid populations become problematic.

▍Applications

Nutritional Value

Rich in dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals, particularly potassium. It is also a good source of inulin, a prebiotic fiber beneficial for digestive health.

Medicinal Uses

Traditionally used to improve digestion and boost immune function due to its high antioxidant content.

Culinary Uses

Can be eaten raw or cooked, often used in salads or as a substitute for potatoes. Its taste is mildly sweet and crisp when fresh.

Solidago canadensis

Image source:https://worldoffloweringplants.com/solidago-canadensis-canadian-goldenrod/

▍Morphological Features

Height: Grows up to 1.5-2 meters tall, forming a robust and branching stem.

Stem: Stems are erect and covered with fine hairs, often green but may have a reddish hue especially towards the base.
Leaves: Leaves are narrow and lance-shaped, measuring about 5-15 cm long. They are arranged alternately along the stem and have serrated edges.

Flowers: Small yellow flowers appear in dense clusters at the tips of branches from late summer into autumn, creating a showy display.
Fruits: Tiny achenes (dry fruits) equipped with small tufts of hair aiding in wind dispersal.

Roots: A rhizomatous root system that helps the plant spread rapidly underground.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Grows well in most soil types but prefers moist, well-drained soils. Tolerates both acidic and alkaline conditions.
Sunlight Requirement	Full sun to partial shade; best flowering occurs in full sunlight.
Water Requirement	Moderate water needs; prefers moist conditions but can tolerate short periods of drought once established.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Rust: Ensure good air circulation around plants and avoid overhead watering to reduce rust incidence.

Pests

Aphids: Use neem oil or insecticidal soap for control.
Caterpillars: Regularly inspect leaves and remove by hand if necessary; use appropriate pesticides if infestation is severe.

▍Applications

Ecosystem Services

Provides nectar and pollen for pollinators like bees and butterflies, contributing positively to local biodiversity.

Medicinal Uses

Traditionally used in herbal medicine for treating wounds, inflammation, and respiratory issues due to its anti-inflammatory properties.

Ornamental Value

Its bright yellow flowers make it a suitable choice for naturalizing landscapes and wildflower gardens, particularly in areas where other plants might struggle.

Stevia rebaudiana

Image source:https://www.britannica.com/plant/stevia-plant

▍Morphological Features

Height: Grows to a height of 30-80 cm, forming a compact and bushy plant.

Stem: The stems are erect and branching, covered with fine hairs that give them a slightly fuzzy texture.
Leaves: Leaves are opposite, oblong-lanceolate, measuring about 2-3 cm wide and up to 7 cm long. They are dark green and have a slightly serrated edge.

Flowers: Small white flowers appear in clusters at the tips of branches from late summer into autumn, though stevia is usually harvested before flowering for maximum sweetness.
Fruits: Small dry fruits known as achenes, containing seeds for propagation.

Roots: A fibrous root system that supports the plant's growth and nutrient absorption.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Prefers well-drained sandy loam soil rich in organic matter. Soil pH should be between 6.0 and 7.5.
Sunlight Requirement	Requires full sunlight for optimal growth and sweetener production.
Water Requirement	Moderate water needs; prefers consistent moisture but does not tolerate waterlogged conditions.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Fungal Diseases: Ensure good air circulation around plants and avoid overhead watering to reduce fungal infections.

Pests

Aphids: Use neem oil or insecticidal soap for control.
Spider Mites: Monitor regularly and use appropriate pesticides if necessary.

▍Applications

Medicinal Uses

Traditionally used in South America for treating various ailments including diabetes due to its natural non-caloric sweeteners, primarily stevioside and rebaudioside A.

Culinary Uses

Widely used as a sugar substitute in foods and beverages due to its high sweetness level and low caloric content. It is suitable for diabetics and those looking to reduce sugar intake.

Environmental Benefits

Its ability to grow in marginal soils reduces the pressure on arable land and provides an alternative crop for sustainable agriculture practices.

Tagetes erecta

Image source:https://ryelandgardens.com/plants/seasonal-tropicals/tagetes-erecta

▍Morphological Features

Height: Grows up to 1 meter tall, forming a robust and bushy plant.

Stem: The stems are sturdy, branching, and covered with fine hairs giving them a slightly rough texture.
Leaves: Leaves are pinnately divided into lance-shaped segments, measuring about 5-15 cm long. They have a strong scent which can repel certain pests.

Flowers: Large, showy flowers in shades of yellow, orange, or red appear from midsummer to autumn. Each flower head consists of ray florets surrounding disc florets.
Fruits: Small dry fruits known as achenes that contain seeds for propagation.

Roots: A fibrous root system that supports the plant's growth and nutrient absorption.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Grows well in most soil types but prefers well-drained loamy soil. Soil pH should be between 6.0 and 7.5.
Sunlight Requirement	Requires full sunlight for optimal growth and flowering.
Water Requirement	Moderate water needs; prefers consistent moisture but does not tolerate waterlogged conditions.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Fungal Diseases: Ensure good air circulation around plants and avoid overhead watering to reduce fungal infections.

Pests

Aphids: Use neem oil or insecticidal soap for control.
Spider Mites: Monitor regularly and use appropriate pesticides if necessary.

▍Applications

Medicinal Uses

Traditionally used in herbal medicine for its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. It is also believed to help alleviate digestive issues.

Culinary Uses

Flowers and leaves can be used to add color and flavor to salads and other dishes. Its essential oils are also used in food flavoring.

Ornamental Value

Its bright and vibrant flowers make it an excellent choice for borders, containers, and mass plantings. It is widely used in landscaping due to its ease of care and pest-repellent properties.

Taraxacum koksaghyz

Image source:https://www.inaturalist.org/taxa/897096-Taraxacum-kok-saghyz

▍Morphological Features

Height: Typically grows to a height of 10-30 cm, forming a basal rosette of leaves.

Leaves: Leaves are deeply lobed with jagged edges, growing from the base in a rosette pattern. They are usually dark green and can grow up to 20 cm long.
Stem: The flower stalks are leafless and hollow, rising directly from the center of the leaf rosette.

Flowers: Produces bright yellow flowers that are composite heads consisting of ray florets only, typically blooming in spring. Each flower head is supported by a series of overlapping bracts.
Fruits: Small, dry fruits known as achenes, each equipped with a pappus (a tuft of hairs) for wind dispersal.

Root: A deep taproot which stores nutrients and water, allowing it to survive under harsh conditions.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Prefers well-drained soils but is adaptable to various soil types including sandy or clay soils. Optimal growth occurs in slightly acidic to neutral pH levels.
Sunlight Requirement	Requires full sunlight for vigorous growth and flowering.
Water Requirement	Moderate water needs; however, due to its deep root system, it can tolerate short periods of drought.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Rust: Avoid overcrowding and ensure good air circulation around plants to prevent rust disease.

Pests

Aphids: Regular monitoring and application of neem oil or insecticidal soap can control aphid infestations.
Caterpillars: Manual removal or use of biological controls like Bacillus thuringiensis can be effective.

▍Applications

Industrial Uses

Used as an alternative source for natural rubber production due to its high latex content found in its roots, making it valuable for industrial applications.

Medicinal Uses

Traditionally used in herbal medicine for its diuretic properties and potential benefits for liver health. However, caution should be exercised due to possible side effects.

Ecosystem Services

Its early blooming period provides an important food source for pollinators like bees when other nectar sources may be scarce.

Taraxacum mongolicum

Image source:https://www.innerpath.com.au/matmed/herbs/Taraxacum_officinale.htm

▍Morphological Features

Height: Grows up to 10-20 cm tall, forming a rosette of leaves close to the ground.

Leaves: Leaves are long and deeply lobed with jagged edges. They grow from the base in a rosette pattern and can reach lengths of up to 20 cm.
Stem: Flower stems are leafless, hollow, and rise directly from the center of the leaf rosette.

Flowers: Bright yellow flowers appear on individual stems, each flower head composed entirely of ray florets, typically blooming from spring through early summer.
Fruits: Small, dry fruits known as achenes, each equipped with a pappus (a tuft of hairs) for wind dispersal.

Root: A thick taproot that stores nutrients and water, allowing the plant to survive harsh conditions.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Prefers well-drained loamy soils but is adaptable to various soil types including sandy or clay soils. Soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral.
Sunlight Requirement	Requires full sunlight for optimal growth and flowering.
Water Requirement	Moderate water needs; however, due to its deep root system, it can tolerate short periods of drought.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Fungal Diseases: Avoid overwatering and ensure good air circulation around plants to reduce fungal infections.

Pests

Aphids: Regular inspection and use of neem oil or insecticidal soap can help manage aphid populations.
Slugs and Snails: Use barriers or baits to protect young seedlings from these pests.

▍Applications

Medicinal Uses

Traditionally used in Chinese medicine for treating liver disorders, detoxification, and as a diuretic. It is also believed to have anti-inflammatory properties.

Culinary Uses

Young leaves can be eaten raw in salads or cooked like spinach. Roots can be roasted and ground to make a coffee substitute.

Ecosystem Services

Its early blooming period provides an important food source for pollinators such as bees and butterflies when other nectar sources may be limited.

Tetracentron sinense

Image source:https://baike.baidu.com/item/Tetracentron%20sinense/58338634

▍Morphological Features

Height: Can grow up to 20 meters tall, forming a large tree with a broad crown.

Leaves: Leaves are simple, opposite or whorled in groups of three to four, measuring about 8-15 cm long and 3-7 cm wide. They are elliptic to ovate in shape with serrated margins.
Bark: The bark is grayish-brown and becomes fissured as the tree matures.

Flowers: Small, greenish-yellow flowers appear in clusters at the ends of branches during late spring to early summer. The species is dioecious, meaning male and female flowers are on separate plants.
Fruits: Fruits are small, woody capsules that split open when ripe to release seeds.

Roots: A deep root system supports the tree's growth and stability, helping it withstand strong winds and soil erosion.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Prefers well-drained loamy soils rich in organic matter but can adapt to various soil types. Optimal pH range is between slightly acidic and neutral.
Sunlight Requirement	Requires full sunlight to partial shade for healthy growth and development.
Water Requirement	Moderate water needs; young trees require regular watering until they become established, after which they are more drought-tolerant.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Fungal Diseases: Ensure good air circulation around the plant and avoid overwatering to reduce the risk of fungal infections.

Pests

Aphids: Regular monitoring and application of insecticidal soap or neem oil can help control aphid populations.
Caterpillars: Handpick caterpillars or use biological controls such as Bacillus thuringiensis for severe infestations.

▍Applications

Ecosystem Services

As a large tree, it provides significant ecological benefits including soil stabilization, carbon sequestration, and habitat creation for wildlife.

Timber Uses

The wood is hard and durable, making it suitable for construction, furniture manufacturing, and crafting high-quality tools.

Ornamental Value

Its attractive foliage and form make it an excellent choice for landscaping projects, especially in parks and gardens where a large canopy is desired.

Vitis vinifera

Image source:https://plantsam.com/vitis-vinifera-ssp-vinifera-cv/

▍Morphological Features

Height: Vines can grow up to 30 meters in length, depending on the support structure available.

Leaves: Leaves are large, green, and typically lobed with serrated edges. They provide an excellent canopy for grape bunches.
Stems: The stems are woody and produce tendrils that help the vine climb and attach to supports.

Grapes: Grapes come in a variety of colors including green, red, and purple/black. Each cluster contains dozens of small, round fruits rich in juice and sugars.
Roots: A deep root system that allows the plant to access water and nutrients from deeper soil layers, contributing to its drought tolerance.
Flowers: Small, greenish-white flowers appear in clusters and eventually develop into grapes after pollination.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Prefers well-drained loamy soils but is adaptable to various types. Soil pH should be between 5.5 and 7.0 for optimal growth.
Sunlight Requirement	Requires full sunlight for maximum fruit production and quality.
Water Requirement	Moderate water needs; prefers consistent moisture but does not tolerate waterlogged conditions. Drip irrigation is recommended.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Fungal Diseases: Common diseases include powdery mildew and downy mildew. Proper air circulation and fungicide applications are essential for control.

Pests

Grapevine Moths: Use pheromone traps and insecticides as needed to manage populations.
Spider Mites: Regular monitoring and appropriate pesticide application can keep infestations under control.

▍Applications

Wine Production

The primary use of Vitis vinifera is for wine production, with different varieties suited to producing specific styles of wine such as red, white, and sparkling wines.

Fresh Consumption

Many varieties are grown specifically for fresh consumption, offering a sweet and refreshing snack high in vitamins and antioxidants.

Juice and Raisins

Used in the production of grape juice and raisins, both of which are popular food items worldwide. Juice can also be fermented to create non-alcoholic beverages.

Ageratina adenophora

Image source:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Page

▍Morphological Features

Height: Typically 30–90 cm tall, sometimes reaching 1–2 meters
Stem: Erect, branched, stem and petiole purple, surfaces often pubescent with white or ferruginous short hairs
Leaves: Opposite, thin, ovate to triangular-ovate or rhombic-ovate, 4–13 cm long, margin with coarse rounded teeth, base truncate or slightly cordate, petiole 4–5 cm long, sparsely hairy on both sides

Flowers: White or pale purple,tubular florets forming a capitulum,bisexual
Fruits: Achene,dark brown, narrowly ellipsoidal in shape
Roots: Root system well-developed and extensively spreading

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	sandy loam or red earth(pH 5.5-7.0)
Germination Temp	20℃-28℃(Optimal)
Planting Density	intensive planting

▍Pest Management

Diseases

leaf spot diseases:(mancozeb wettable powder)

Pests

Procecidochares utilis
Xuanpi Longhorn Beetle

▍Applications

Energy feed

solid fuel and pig feed

Allelochemicals

For the development of natural herbicide

Ecological

Soil conservation plant

Artemisia ludoviciana

Image source:https://baike.baidu.com/

▍Morphological Features

Height: Typically 30-100 cm tall
Stem: erect
Leaves: Pinnately lobed,covered with a silvery-white fuzz.

Flowers: White,tubular florets small,densely arranged in spike-like clusters, forming an open panicle
Fruits: Achene,elliptical,slightly flattened
Roots: Root system well-developed,adaptable

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Prefers well-drained sandy loam; tolerant of poor soils and highly adaptable
Germination Temp	Optimal temperature 18-24°C; avoids extreme temperatures
Planting Density	4,800-10,000 plants per acre, balancing ventilation and growth space

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Powdery Mildew:(50% Carbendazim)
Leaf spot disease:(mancozeb wettable powder)

Pests

Aphids:(10% Imidacloprid SC )
Red spider mites:(Abamectin EC)

▍Applications

Mdical Use

Widely used to relieve pain and treat gastrointestinal disorders

Ecological

Ornamental plants

Artemisia princeps

Image source:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Page

▍Morphological Features

Height: Typically 60–150 cm tall
Stem: Erect, purple-brown or brown, with longitudinal ridges. Stems and branches initially covered with spiderweb-like fine hairs; lower hairs gradually shed, becoming glabrous.
Leaves: Leaf surface glabrous, while underside densely covered with grayish-white, arachnoid tomentum. Lower leaves ovate or oblong-ovate, once or twice pinnately deeply lobed, with 2 lobes per side, long-petiolate, withering during flowering; middle leaves ovate or ovate-elliptic, 6–12 cm long, pinnately deeply lobed or semi-lobed, rarely fully lobed, with 2(3) lobes per side. lobed segments elliptic-lanceolate or elliptic, median lobe larger than lateral lobes; basal segments of lateral lobes larger than lateral and median segments, entire or with 1–2 sparse teeth per side; petiole 1–2(-3) cm long, with small stipules at base; upper leaves pinnately deeply or partially lobed, with 1–2 segments per side; Bract leaves 3, deeply lobed or entire.

Flowers: capitula oblong or oblong-ovate
Fruits: Achene, elliptic or obovoid-elliptic
Roots: The main root is slightly thick, numerous lateral roots

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	sandy loam or loam soil(pH 6.5-8.0)
Germination Temp	20℃-23℃(Optimal)
Planting Density	0.8–1 plant per square meter

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Root Rot: Caused by poor soil drainage, leading to waterlogged roots. Prevent by improving soil structure (e.g., adding perlite, sand, or grit) and ensuring well-drained planting sites.
Leaf Spot: Fungal or bacterial infections resulting in brown/black leaf spots. Manage by avoiding overhead watering (to keep foliage dry) and ensuring good air circulation around plants.
Minimal Issues in Native Habitat: Japanese mugwort is native to East Asia (China, Japan, Korea) and experiences few pest or disease problems in its natural environment due to balanced ecosystems and adaptive traits.

Pests

Aphids & Whiteflies: Sap-sucking insects that cause leaf distortion, yellowing, and honeydew secretion. Control with neem oil (disrupts growth/reproduction) or insecticidal soap (suffocates pests on contact). Both are organic and safe for beneficial insects when used as directed.
Caterpillars: Larvae that feed on leaves, creating holes and defoliation. Remove manually (by hand or with tweezers) to prevent damage, especially in small gardens or indoor settings.

▍Applications

Medicinal

Anti-inflammatory , Antioxidant Effects,Anti-cancer Effects

Ecological

can be used as livestock feed

Cosmetics and Skincare antioxidant, skin conditioning, anti-aging, skin brightening

Bidens hawaiensis

▍Morphological Features

Height
Stem: Erect, suffrutescent (woody at base), branched; green to reddish; glabrous or sparsely hairy .
Leaves: Simple, oblong-ovate, 7–16(–20) cm long (incl. petiole), 2–6 cm wide; margins serrate; base broadly cuneate; glabrous or sparsely pubescent on veins .

Flowers: Heads in compound cymes , 3–5 cm diameter; yellow ray florets (7–10, sterile); yellow disk florets (22–32); blooms year-round (sporadic) .
Fruit: Achenes black, straight, wingless, 8–13 mm long, 1–1.5 mm wide; glabrous;
Root system: Taprooted, woody base, well-branched; adapted to volcanic/rocky soils.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Prefers moist, fertile, well-drained sandy loam; tolerant of poor soils but intolerant of waterlogging
Germination Temp	Optimal temperature 18-25°C; can withstand extreme temperatures briefly but prolonged exposure inhibits growth
Planting Density	Approximately 200,000-300,000 plants per hectare (200-300 plants per square meter); timely thinning required for adjustment

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Root rot: improve drainage
leaf spot: avoid wet foliage
minimal issues in native habitat.

Pests

Aphids, whiteflies: neem oil/insecticidal soap
caterpillars: manual removal.

▍Applications

Medicinal

Traditional Hawaiian use for herbal tea (ko?oko?olau tea), digestive support, and general wellness .

Ecological

Hawai?i Island endemic; found in open shrubland, old lava flows, mesic forests (50–1950 m); biodiversity conservation subject .

Calendula officinalis

Image source:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Page

▍Morphological Features

Height: Typically 30–60 cm tall (occasionally to 75 cm) .
Stem: Erect, angular, branched from base/upper parts; green, glandular-pubescent (sticky hairs); ribbed.
Leaves: Alternate; lower leaves spatulate/oblong-obovate (15–20 cm, petiolate); upper leaves lanceolate/oblong (5–15 cm, sessile, clasping); pale green, hairy, aromatic;

Flowers: Solitary capitula at stem apex, 4–5 cm diameter; ray florets yellow/orange (sterile); disc florets yellow (fertile); blooms April–September.
Fruit: Achenes curved, nail-like, 1–1.5 cm; pale yellow/brown; outer achenes incurved, with small spines/ridges; no pappus;
Root system: Fibrous root system, shallow, well-branched; adapted to loose soils.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil type	Prefers loose, fertile, well-drained loam/sandy loam; (PH 6.0-7.0) avoids waterlogging .
Germination temperature	15–25°C (optimum ~20°C);
Planting density	Ornamental: 30–40 cm row spacing, 20–30 cm plant spacing; dense planting for ground cover.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Root Rot: Improve soil drainage by adding perlite, sand, or grit
avoid overwatering.
Powdery Mildew: Ensure good air circulation
avoid overhead watering to keep foliage dry.
Leaf Spot: Remove infected leaves promptly
avoid wetting foliage.
Rust: Apply phosphorus-potassium fertilizer to boost plant resistance
maintain proper spacing for ventilation.
Downy Mildew: Control soil moisture
avoid dense planting.

Pests

Aphids, Spider Mites, Mealybugs: Treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
Fungus Gnats: Reduce soil moisture
use yellow sticky traps for adults.
Cutworms: Handpick larvae at night
apply soil treatments if necessary.

▍Applications

Medicinal

Anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, wound-healing; used in creams, teas, tinctures; treats skin irritations.

Ornamental

Popular garden/container flower; long bloom; cut flowers; mass planting/edging.

Industrial

Natural yellow/orange food dye (petals); essential oil for cosmetics.

Ecological

Pollinator-friendly; cover crop for soil protection; phytoremediation potential.

Carduus pycnocephalus

Image source:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Page

▍Morphological Features

Height: 30-150 cm (commonly 50-100 cm)
Stem: Erect, with longitudinal ridges and green wing-like structures, densely covered with spines, branches slender
Leaves: Alternate; lower leaves pinnately deep-lobed with spiny margins; upper leaves smaller, decurrent into wings

Flowers: Pendulous or nodding capitulum, purplish-red tubular florets, multi-layered spiny involucral bracts
Fruit: Grayish-yellow wedge-shaped achene, topped with white bristle-like pappus for wind dispersal
Root System: Thick taproot with well-developed lateral roots, secretes organic acids to dissolve minerals

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil Type	Sandy loam or general soil (pH 6.0-7.5), tolerant of poor soils
Germination Temperature	15-20°C (sprouts in ~10 days when sown in spring)
Planting Density	Row spacing 45 cm, plant spacing 30 cm

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Powdery mildew: Spray 25% Triadimefon WP
Root rot: Drainage in rainy season + soil sterilization
Gray mold: Crop rotation + ventilation to reduce humidity

Pests

Aphids: Spray 10% Imidacloprid SC
Spider mites: Spray Abamectin EC

▍Applications

Medicinal Uses

Clears heat and promotes diuresis (treats chyluria, urinary infections)

Cools blood and stops bleeding (treats hematemesis, epistaxis, menorrhagia)

Dispels wind and detoxifies (external use for boils and abscesses)

Ecological Functions

Nectar plant for pollinators

Phytoremediation (tolerant to heavy metal pollution, accumulates zinc up to 200× environmental levels)

Soil conservation (robust root system stabilizes soil)

Dittrichia graveolens

Image source:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Page

▍Morphological Features

Height: Usually 30-70 cm tall, with some plants reaching over 1 meter.
Stem: Erect or multi-branched at the base, prostrate in growth, smooth and glabrous on the surface, slightly lignified at the lower part.
Leaves: Alternate, fleshy, deeply divided into filiform or narrowly linear leaflets, entire margin, grayish-green.

Flowers: Solitary at the apex of branches, opposite to leaves; petals yellowish-white, obovate-oblong, 1.5-2 cm long.
Fruit: Capsule subglobose, brown, splitting into 3 valves when mature; seeds triquetrous, blackish-brown, with small tuberculate protrusions on the surface.
Root system: Taproot stout, up to 2 cm in diameter, with well-developed lateral roots extending deep underground, adapted to arid environments.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil type	Sandy loam or desert sandy soil, saline-alkali tolerant, pH 7.5-8.5, with good drainage.
Germination temperature	15-25°C (optimal), suitable for sowing in spring.
Planting density	Row spacing 40-50 cm, plant spacing 30-40 cm, about 3000-4000 plants per mu.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Powdery mildew: Spray with 50% Tricyclazole WP or 25% Triadimefon WP at 1500x dilution
Root rot: Crop rotation and drainage, drench with Carbendazim at the early stage of infection.

Pests

Aphids: Spray with 10% Thiamethoxam SC or 25% Phosmet EC at 1000x dilution
Noctuid larvae: Spray with 80% Dichlorvos EC at 1500x dilution.

▍Applications

Medical use

Traditional Uyghur and Mongolian medicine, used for relieving cough and asthma, dispelling wind-dampness, detoxification, etc.; contains alkaloids such as harmaline, and modern studies show its potential in anti-tumor and antibacterial effects.

Ecological role

Pioneer plant in deserts and saline-alkali lands, for windbreak, sand fixation and soil improvement.

Other uses

Can be used as forage (young stems and leaves), seeds can be pressed for oil for industrial or lighting purposes.

Erigeron philadelphicus

Image source:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Page

▍Morphological Features

Height: Usually 30-90 cm tall.
Stem: Erect, relatively stout, green, upper part branched, whole plant covered with long stiff hairs and short stiff hairs.
Leaves: Simple, alternate; basal leaves in rosettes, spatulate, ovate or ovate-lanceolate, 5-12 cm long, 2-4 cm wide, apex acute or obtuse, base cuneate-decurrent into long winged petioles, base of petioles often purplish, both surfaces covered with appressed stiff hairs, margin coarsely toothed; cauline leaves semi-amplexicaul, gradually smaller.

Flowers: Several capitula arranged in corymbose or paniculate inflorescences; involucre hemispherical, bracts in 3 layers, lanceolate, pale green, margin translucent, midvein brown, hairy abaxially; ray florets ligulate, ligules linear, white slightly pinkish; tubular florets yellow.
Fruit: Achenes flattened, oblong, with pappus, small and light, suitable for wind dispersal.
Root system: No obvious taproot, many branches, fibrous roots well developed and widely spreading.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil type	Loose, fertile, well-drained sandy loam or humus soil, pH 6.0-7.5, tolerant to poor soil.
Germination temperature	15-25°C (optimal), suitable for sowing in spring or autumn, germinating in about one week.
Planting density	Row spacing 30-40 cm, plant spacing 20-30 cm.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Powdery mildew: Spray with 50% Tricyclazole WP or 25% Triadimefon WP at 1500x dilution
Root rot: Crop rotation and drainage, avoid waterlogging, drench with Carbendazim at early stage.

Pests

Aphids: Spray with 10% Thiamethoxam SC or 25% Phosmet EC at 1000x dilution
Noctuid larvae: Spray with 80% Dichlorvos EC at 1500x dilution.

▍Applications

Ecological role

As an alien invasive species, it often grows on roadsides, wastelands and fields; can be used as a pioneer plant to quickly cover the ground, but may inhibit the growth of native plants.

Ornamental

Flowering from March to May, flower shape similar to daisies, suitable for flower borders, wildflower combinations or natural landscapes.

Medicinal use

Whole herb can be used as medicine, with functions of clearing heat, detoxifying and stopping bleeding; modern studies show certain antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects.

Filago lutescens

Image source:NA

▍Morphological Features

Height: Usually 10-30 cm tall, 0.5-0.8 mm in diameter.
Stem: Culms tufted, erect or slightly inclined at base, longitudinally striate, scabrous, usually with 3-7 nodes; nodes bearded with white hairs, rarely branched.
Leaves: Simple, alternate; leaf sheaths shorter or longer than internodes, membranous at margin, thinly ciliate at throat or margin; ligule short, ciliate; leaf blades linear, flat, 1.5-5 cm long, 1-4 mm wide, apex acuminate, slightly scabrous and puberulent on both surfaces.

Flowers: Raceme spike-like, solitary at apex, 1.5-3 cm long, slender, slightly curved, creamy yellow; sessile spikelets less than 2 mm long, base hairs as long as or slightly longer than spikelet; glumes fringed with cilia, second glume with golden awn 10-15 mm long; stamen 1, anther about 1 mm long. Flowering and fruiting period: May to September.
Fruit: Caryopsis ovoid-oblong, small and light, easy to shed and disperse.
Root system: Slender and dense roots, basal tillers usually clustered, fibrous roots well developed, adapted to poor environments.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil type	Loose, well-drained sandy loam or rocky lean soil, pH 6.0-7.5, tolerant to infertility, preferring semi-shade or scattered light, avoiding waterlogging.
Germination temperature	15-25°C (optimal), suitable for sowing in spring, germinating in about 7-10 days.
Planting density	Row spacing 20-30 cm, plant spacing 15-20 cm, about 150-200 plants per square meter.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Powdery mildew: Spray with 25% Triadimefon WP at 1500x dilution at early stage
Root rot: Improve drainage, drench with 50% Carbendazim WP at 500x dilution.

Pests

Aphids: Spray with 10% Imidacloprid WP at 1500x dilution
Underground pests: Mix soil with 50% Phoxim EC at 1000x dilution before sowing.

▍Applications

Medicinal use

Whole herb used as medicine, with effects of clearing heat and detoxifying, cooling blood to stop bleeding, inducing diuresis and treating stranguria; used for cold and fever, hepatitis, nephritis, urinary tract infection, etc.

Ecological use

Drought and poor soil tolerant, can be used as pioneer plant for rocky desertification and slope greening, stabilizing soil and preventing erosion.

Other uses

Can be used as raw material for herbal tea; dried stems used as fuel; young plants used as fodder; also used as matching material in floral art

Gnaphalium uliginosum

Image source:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Page

▍Morphological Features

Height: Usually 10-20 cm tall, up to 40 cm,
Stem: erect, slightly woody at base, tufted and ascending branches; densely covered with white floccose tomentum, internodes short (5-10 mm).
Leaves: Simple, alternate; basal leaves persistent at anthesis, in rosettes; median leaves oblong-linear or linear-lanceolate, 2-4(-7) cm long, 2-4 mm wide, sessile, white tomentose on both surfaces.

Flowers: Capitula clustered at apex of branches, involucres 3-seriate, membranous; florets tubular, pale yellow; pappus white, scabrous, deciduous. Flowering period: July-October.
Fruit: Achenes fusiform, about 0.7 mm long, papillose, easily dispersed by wind.
Root system: Mainly fibrous roots, slender and dense, shallowly rooted, adapted to wet habitats.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil type	Prefers moist, fertile, loose loam or sandy loam, pH 6.0-7.5, moisture-tolerant but avoiding waterlogging; often grows in wet grasslands, riverbanks and valleys.
Germination temperature	Optimal 15-25°C, suitable for spring sowing, germinating in about 7-10 days.
Planting density	Row spacing 20-25 cm, plant spacing 15-20 cm, about 200-250 plants per square meter.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Powdery mildew: Spray with 25% Triadimefon WP at 1500x dilution
Leaf spot: Spray with 70% Thiophanate-Methyl WP at 800x dilution
Root rot: Control water and drench with 50% Carbendazim WP at 500x dilution.

Pests

Aphids: Spray with 10% Imidacloprid WP at 1500x dilution
Leafminers: Spray with 1500x dilution of suitable insecticide
Underground pests: Treat soil with 50% Phoxim EC at 1000x dilution before sowing.

▍Applications

Medicinal use

Whole herb used as medicine, with effects of relieving cough and resolving phlegm, clearing heat and detoxifying, lowering blood pressure; used for cough, sore throat, hypertension, etc.

Edible use

Tender stems and leaves can be blanched and used as ingredients for Qingming cakes and green rice cakes.

Ecological use

Pioneer plant for wetland restoration and riverbank slope protection, conserving soil and water and purifying water quality.

Other uses

Can be used as natural dye; folk herbal tea for clearing heat and promoting diuresis.

Helianthus anomalus

Image source:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Page

▍Morphological Features

Height: Usually 1-3.5 meters tall; dwarf ornamental varieties 30-150 cm, giant varieties can reach over 8 meters.
Stem: Annual herb, stem erect and stout, cylindrical with multiple angles, covered with white coarse hairs, generally unbranched, occasionally branched at the upper part; pith well-developed.
Leaves: Simple, alternate, ovate-cordate or ovate, 10-40 cm long, 5-40 cm wide, with three basal veins, margin coarsely serrated, both surfaces covered with short rough hairs; petiole 2-20 cm long.

Flowers: Capitulum solitary at the apex of stem or branch, 10-30 cm in diameter; involucral bracts multi-layered, imbricate; ray florets neutral, golden yellow (sterile); tubular florets bisexual, brown or purple (fertile). Flowering period: July-September.
Fruit: Achene (sunflower seed), obovate or ovate-oblong, slightly compressed, 10-15 mm long; pericarp woody, gray or black, with fine ribs and pubescent.
Root system: Taproot well-developed, penetrating 2-3 meters deep; lateral roots spreading horizontally, drought and poor soil tolerant.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil type	Prefers deep, fertile, loose, well-drained loam, pH 6.0-8.0; salt-tolerant, can grow normally with total salt content ≤0.4%; avoids waterlogging.
Germination temperature	Can germinate at 8-10°C, optimal 15-25°C, germinates in 5-7 days after sowing.
Planting density	Oil-type: row spacing 60-70 cm, plant spacing 30-40 cm, about 45,000-60,000 plants per hectare. Confectionery-type: row spacing 70-80 cm, plant spacing 40-50 cm, about 30,000-45,000 plants per hectare.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Sclerotinia rot: crop rotation + spray with 50% Procymidone WP at 1000x dilution
Rust: spray with 25% Triadimefon WP at 1500x dilution
Brown spot: spray with 70% Thiophanate-Methyl WP at 800x dilution.

Pests

Aphids: spray with 10% Imidacloprid WP at 1500x dilution
Sunflower moth: spray with Bt emulsion at 800x dilution
Underground pests: treat soil with 50% Phoxim EC at 1000x dilution before sowing.

▍Applications

Edible use

Sunflower seeds can be roasted or pressed for oil (oil-type varieties contain about 50% oil), with high nutrition.

Medicinal use

Flower heads, stem pith, roots, etc. used as medicine, with functions of clearing heat, relieving pain, promoting diuresis.

Ornamental use

Dwarf varieties for potted plants and flower borders; tall varieties for flower sea landscapes.

Industrial use

Sunflower seed meal used as feed; stems for fiberboard and fuel; flowers for natural pigment extraction.

Ecological use

Excellent crop for saline-alkali soil improvement and soil and water conservation; also an important nectar source plant.

Lactuca serriola

Image source:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Page

▍Morphological Features

Height: usually 50-120 cm tall, some up to 150 cm.
Stem: Erect, solitary, hollow, base often purplish, with white stiff bristles, conically branched at upper part; white latex exudes when broken.
Leaves: Alternate; middle and lower leaves oblanceolate or oblong-elliptic, 3-17 cm long, runcinate-pinnatifid, base sagittate-clasping; margin entire or finely serrate, midrib on abaxial surface with yellow bristles.

Flowers: Capitula arranged in panicles; involucre ovoid, about 5 layers; ligulate florets 15-25, yellow. Flowering period: June-August.
Fruit: Achenes oblanceolate, light brown, about 3.5 mm long, 6-8 fine ribs on each face, scabrous on upper part, beak 3 mm long at apex.
Root system: Taproot stout, vertically straight, lateral roots fibrous, tolerant to poor soil.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil type	Prefers loose, fertile, well-drained loam, pH 5.5-7.0; tolerant to poor soil, avoids waterlogging.
Germination temperature	Suitable 15-20°C, germinates in 7-10 days after sowing, relatively cold-resistant.
Planting density	Row spacing 30-40 cm, plant spacing 20-30 cm, about 80,000-120,000 plants per hectare.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Downy mildew: Spray with 75% Chlorothalonil WP at 800x dilution
Powdery mildew: Spray with 25% Triadimefon WP at 1500x dilution
Brown spot: Spray with 70% Thiophanate-Methyl WP at 800x dilution.

Pests

Aphids: Spray with 10% Imidacloprid WP at 1500x dilution
Cabbage caterpillars: Spray with Bt emulsion at 800x dilution
Underground pests: Treat soil with 50% Phoxim EC at 1000x dilution before sowing.

▍Applications

Medicinal use

Whole herb used as medicine, with effects of clearing heat and detoxifying, activating blood and removing stasis.

Forage use

Tender stems and leaves used as green forage, crude protein content about 14%-16%.

Ecological use

For saline-alkali soil improvement and soil and water conservation; also used as ornamental plant in flower borders.

Industrial use

Stems for fiber and fuel; latex contains lactucarium, can be used as raw material for biological pesticides.

Lactuca virosa

Image source:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Page

▍Morphological Features

Height: usually 100-200 cm tall, some can reach over 200 cm.
Stem: Erect, solitary, hollow, purplish-red at base, with white stiff bristles, conically branched at upper part; white latex exudes when broken.
Leaves: Alternate, petioles and leaves often purple; middle and lower leaves oblanceolate or oblong-elliptic, runcinate-pinnatifid, base sagittate-clasping, midrib on abaxial surface with yellow bristles, margin entire or finely serrate.

Flowers: Capitula arranged in panicles; involucre ovoid, about 5 layers; ligulate florets 15-25, yellow. Flowering period: July-September.
Fruit: Achenes oblanceolate, purplish-black, about 3.5 mm long, 6-8 fine ribs on each face, scabrous on upper part, beak 3 mm long at apex.
Root system: Taproot stout, vertically straight, lateral roots fibrous, tolerant to poor soil.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil type	Prefers loose, fertile, well-drained loam, pH 5.5-7.0; tolerant to poor soil, avoids waterlogging.
Germination temperature	Suitable 15-20°C, minimum about 10°C, germinates in 7-10 days after sowing, relatively cold-resistant.
Planting density	Row spacing 30-40 cm, plant spacing 20-30 cm, about 80,000-120,000 plants per hectare.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Downy mildew: Spray with 75% Chlorothalonil WP at 800x dilution
Powdery mildew: Spray with 25% Triadimefon WP at 1500x dilution
Brown spot: Spray with 70% Thiophanate-Methyl WP at 800x dilution.

Pests

Aphids: Spray with 10% Imidacloprid WP at 1500x dilution
Cabbage caterpillars: Spray with Bt emulsion at 800x dilution
Underground pests: Treat soil with 50% Phoxim EC at 1000x dilution before sowing.

▍Applications

Medicinal use

Whole herb used as medicine, containing lactucerin, with sedative, analgesic and hypnotic effects; traditionally used for relieving cough and insomnia, dosage control required to avoid poisoning.

Ecological use

Can be used for saline-alkali soil improvement and soil and water conservation; also used as ornamental plant in flower borders.

Industrial use

Stems for fiber and fuel; latex contains lactucarium, can be used as raw material for biological pesticides.

Matricaria chamomilla

Image source:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Page

▍Morphological Features

Height: Typically 30–60 cm tall
Stem: Erect, glabrous, much branched at upper part, green, with faint herbal scent.
Leaves: Alternate, bipinnately divided, sessile, base slightly enlarged, segments filiform; upper leaves ovate or oblong-ovate.

Flowers: Capitula arranged in corymbs, 1.2–2.5 cm in diameter; involucre hemispherical, 2-seriate, margin membranous; ray florets white, female; tubular florets yellow, bisexual, 4–5 lobed at apex. Flowering period: April–August.
Fruit: Achenes oblong or obovate, grayish-white, 1–1.5 mm long, 3–5-ribbed, without pappus. Fruiting period: April–August.
Root system: Fusiform roots, relatively shallow distribution, good drought tolerance.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil type	Prefers loose, fertile, well-drained sandy loam, pH 5.6–7.5, neutral soil best; avoids waterlogging.
Germination temperature	Suitable 15–20°C, germinates in 7–14 days after sowing; cold-resistant, tolerates light frost.
Planting density	Row spacing 25–30 cm, plant spacing 20–25 cm, about 120,000–150,000 plants per hectare.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Powdery mildew: Spray with 25% Triadimefon WP at 1500x dilution
Gray mold: Spray with 50% Procymidone WP at 1000x dilution
Leaf spot: Spray with 70% Thiophanate-Methyl WP at 800x dilution.

Pests

Aphids: Spray with 10% Imidacloprid WP at 1500x dilution
Thrips: Spray with 20% Acetamiprid at 2000x dilution
Leafminers: Spray with suitable insecticide at 1500x dilution.

▍Applications

Medicinal use

Whole herb and flowers used medicinally, containing flavonoids and essential oils, with anti-inflammatory, sedative, and gastrointestinal soothing effects; used for insomnia, skin inflammation, indigestion.

Cosmetic use

Essential oil and hydrosol used in skin care products for soothing sensitive skin, reducing redness and dryness.

Tea use

Flowers can be brewed as tea for relaxing mood and improving sleep.

Ornamental use

Delicate flower form, suitable for flower borders, potted plants, and ground cover.

Omalotheca supina

Image source:https://www.iplant.cn/

▍Morphological Features

Height: Perennial herb, 2–10 cm tall, tufted at base, dwarf plant type.
Stem: Erect or slightly curved at upper part, unbranched, 0.5–1 mm in diameter, densely grayish-white tomentose, denser below capitula.
Leaves: Basal leaves densely clustered; cauline leaves sparse, linear-subulate or linear-lanceolate, 1–3 cm long, 1–2.5 mm wide, sessile, entire, white tomentose on both surfaces, 1-veined.

Flowers: Capitula usually 1–7, subcapitate to spiciform at stem apex; involucre campanulate, 5–6 mm long, 3–4-seriate, phyllaries light green to tan with dark brown margins or tips; all florets tubular; pappus white, 3.5–4 mm long, scabrous, deciduous. Flowering period: July–September.
Fruit: Cypselae obovoid, 1.0–1.5 mm long, strigose; fruiting period the same as flowering period.
Root system: Slender prostrate cylindrical rhizome with long fibrous roots, adapted to alpine habitats.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil type	Native to alpine meadows, granite outcrops and gravelly slopes; prefers cool, moist, loose and well-drained soil, tolerates poor soil, avoids waterlogging.
Germination temperature	Wild-type favors 10–15°C; artificial sowing at 12–18°C, germinating in 10–15 days.
Planting density	Plant spacing 10–15 cm, row spacing 15–20 cm, 30–50 plants per square meter.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Powdery mildew: Spray with 25% Triadimefon WP at 1500x dilution
Leaf spot: Spray with 70% Thiophanate-Methyl WP at 800x dilution
Root rot: Improve drainage and drench with 50% Carbendazim WP at 800x dilution.

Pests

Aphids: Spray with 10% Imidacloprid WP at 1500x dilution
Thrips: Spray with 20% Acetamiprid at 2000x dilution
Underground pests: Control with poison baits.

▍Applications

Medicinal use

Whole herb used in traditional medicine, containing flavonoids and volatile oils, with effects of clearing heat, promoting diuresis, relieving cough and asthma.

Ecological use

Alpine ecological restoration species for soil and slope protection, and as a nectar source for alpine insects.

Ornamental use

Dwarf and compact plant, suitable for rock gardens, alpine plant collections and potted plants.

Pilosella piloselloides

Image source:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Page

▍Morphological Features

Height
Stem: Erect, slender, 2–5 mm in diameter, sparsely to densely hairy, often with a few small leaves, unbranched or slightly branched near the top.
Leaves: Basal leaves in a rosette, spatulate to oblong-lanceolate, 5–20 cm long, 1–3 cm wide, entire or slightly toothed, densely white-hairy on both surfaces; cauline leaves smaller, alternate, lanceolate, sessile.

Flowers: Capitula 5–30, arranged in a loose corymb at the stem apex; involucre cylindrical to campanulate, 6–8 mm long, 2–3-seriate, phyllaries green to brownish, hairy; all florets ligulate, bright yellow, 8–12 mm long; pappus white, 5–7 mm long, persistent. Flowering period: June–August.
Fruit: Cypselae oblong, 2–3 mm long, brown, slightly ribbed, with a white pappus for wind dispersal. Fruiting period same as flowering period.
Root system: Fibrous root system, shallow and spreading, with short rhizomes, adapted to colonizing open, disturbed sites .

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil type	Native to meadows, grasslands, open woodlands and roadsides; prefers well-drained, moderately fertile, neutral to slightly acidic soil, tolerates poor, dry soil, avoids waterlogging.
Germination temperature	Optimal 15–20°C, germination in 10–20 days under suitable moisture and light.
Planting density	Plant spacing 20–30 cm, row spacing 30–40 cm, 30–50 plants per square meter to ensure air circulation.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Powdery mildew: Spray with 25% Triadimefon WP at 1500x dilution
Leaf spot: Spray with 70% Thiophanate-Methyl WP at 800x dilution
Root rot: Improve drainage and drench with 50% Carbendazim WP at 800x dilution.

Pests

Aphids: Spray with 10% Imidacloprid WP at 1500x dilution
Leaf miners: Use yellow sticky traps and spray with 20% Spinosad SC at 1500x dilution
Caterpillars: Handpick or spray with 2.5% Lambda-Cyhalothrin EC at 2000x dilution.

▍Applications

Medicinal use

Whole herb used in traditional medicine, containing flavonoids and phenolics, with anti-inflammatory, diuretic and wound-healing effects.

Ecological use

Forage for livestock, nectar source for pollinators; can be invasive in some regions, requiring monitoring.

Ornamental use

Bright yellow flowers, suitable for wildflower gardens, meadow plantings and naturalistic landscapes.

Rudbeckia hirta

Image source:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Page

▍Morphological Features

Height: Typically 30–100 cm tall,
Stem: Erect, 3–6 mm in diameter, unbranched or slightly branched at upper part, densely covered with coarse bristles, firm and strong .
Leaves: Alternate; basal and lower leaves spatulate to oblong-ovate, 8–12 cm long, 2–4 cm wide, with winged petioles, crenate-serrate, 3-veined; upper leaves oblong-lanceolate, 3–5 cm long, 1–1.5 cm wide, sessile or shortly petioled, crenate or entire, both surfaces densely white-bristly .

Flowers: Capitula solitary or few clustered at stem apex, 5–7 cm in diameter, with long peduncles; involucre bracts 2-seriate, outer oblong, 12–17 mm, inner lanceolate-linear, all bristly; receptacle conical; ray florets bright yellow, 10–14, 20–40 mm long, apex with 2–3 irregular short teeth; disk florets dark brown to purple-black, conical; flowering period June–October .
Fruit: Achenes tetragonal, blackish-brown, about 2 mm long, without pappus; fruiting period same as flowering period .
Root system: Strong taproot system with fibrous roots, deep and spreading, adapted to dry and infertile environments .

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil type	Native to meadows, grasslands and roadsides in North America; prefers well-drained, neutral to slightly acidic loam, tolerates clay, sand, poor and dry soil, avoids waterlogging.
Germination temperature	Optimal 15–20°C, germination in 10–15 days under sufficient light and proper moisture.
Planting density	Plant spacing 25–35 cm, row spacing 30–40 cm, 25–35 plants per square meter to ensure air circulation and prevent diseases.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Powdery mildew: Spray with 25% Triadimefon WP at 1500x dilution
Leaf spot: Spray with 70% Thiophanate-Methyl WP at 800x dilution
Root rot: Improve drainage and drench with 50% Carbendazim WP at 800x dilution.

Pests

Aphids: Spray with 10% Imidacloprid WP at 1500x dilution
Thrips: Spray with 20% Acetamiprid EC at 2000x dilution
Caterpillars: Handpick or spray with 2.5% Lambda-Cyhalothrin EC at 2000x dilution.

▍Applications

Ornamental use

Bright flowers with long flowering period, suitable for flower borders, meadow landscapes, potted plants and cut flowers, often used in festival decorations.

Ecological use

Important nectar source for bees and butterflies; can be used for soil and water conservation and ecological restoration on slopes; in some regions, it may be invasive and requires monitoring.

Medicinal use

Whole herb has anti-inflammatory and diuretic effects in traditional medicine, containing flavonoids and phenols.

Saussurea bogedaensis

Image source:https://baike.baidu.com/

▍Morphological Features

Height: Typically 30–60 cm tall
Stem: Solitary, erect, unbranched, 1.5–3 cm in diameter, covered with glandular hairs, robust .
Leaves: Basal and lower stem leaves petiolate, narrowly ovate/elliptic/obovate, 15–20 cm long, 3–5 cm wide, glandular hairy, margin denticulate to serrulate, apex obtuse; upper leaves sessile, ovate/elliptic, 5.5–12 cm long, 3.5–6.5 cm wide, membranous, stellate surrounding synflorescence, pale yellow .

Flowers: Capitula 15–30, hemispheric synflorescence 8–15 cm in diameter, sessile/shortly pedunculate; involucre broadly campanulate, 1–2.5 cm in diameter, phyllaries 4–5-seriate, subulate, light brown with dark margin, densely pubescent; florets purple, corolla 1.3–1.5 cm long; pappus dirty white, persistent; flowering period July–August .
Fruit: Cypselae oblong, brown, ribbed, with dirty white pappus for wind dispersal; fruiting period August–September .
Root system: Stout unbranched caudex, densely covered with fibrous remains of petioles; taproot system with fibrous roots, adapted to rocky alpine soil .

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil type	Native to high-altitude (3000–4000 m) rocky slopes, gravelly areas, alpine meadows in Bogeda Mountain, Xinjiang; prefers well-drained, gravel-rich, slightly acidic to neutral soil, tolerates poor, dry, cold conditions, avoids waterlogging.
Germination temperature	No precise data; refer to related Saussurea species: 15–20°C, stratification may improve germination, germination in 20–30 days under suitable conditions.
Planting density	No precise data; refer to alpine herbs: plant spacing 20–30 cm, row spacing 30–40 cm, 30–50 plants per square meter to reduce competition.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Powdery mildew: Spray 25% Triadimefon WP 1500x
Leaf spot: Spray 70% Thiophanate-Methyl WP 800x
Root rot: Improve drainage, drench with 50% Carbendazim WP 800x.

Pests

Aphids: Spray 10% Imidacloprid WP 1500x
Caterpillars: Handpick or spray 2.5% Lambda-Cyhalothrin EC 2000x
Slugs: Use iron phosphate bait.

▍Applications

Medicinal use

Contains flavonoids, phenolics and terpenoids, with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant effects; critically endangered, protected by law, wild collection prohibited .

Ecological use

Alpine ecosystem stabilizer, prevents soil erosion on rocky slopes; nectar source for alpine pollinators.

Conservation research

Important for studying alpine plant adaptation and evolution; subject of ex-situ conservation and propagation research .

Scalesia atractyloides

▍Morphological Features

Height
Stem: Woody, erect, 0.8–1.5 cm diameter, unbranched/slightly branched, soft wood with large pith, bark smooth light brown.
Leaves: Alternate, narrow lanceolate, 5–10 cm long, 0.5–1.2 cm wide, entire, glabrous, 3-veined, short-petioled, adapted to arid conditions .

Flowers: Capitula solitary/several at apex, 3–4 cm diameter; involucre bracts 3–4-seriate, lanceolate, pubescent; ray florets yellow, disk florets yellowish; pappus bristles persistent; flowering period June–August.
Fruit: Achenes oblong, brown, ribbed, with persistent pappus for wind dispersal; fruiting period August–September.
Root system: Well-developed taproot system with fibrous roots, deep for water/nutrients in arid, rocky soil.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil type	Native to arid-zone rocky slopes, lava fields; prefers well-drained, gravel-rich, neutral to slightly alkaline soil, tolerates poor, dry, infertile conditions, avoids waterlogging .
Germination temperature	No precise data; refer to Scalesia spp.: 18–22°C, light-dependent, germination in 15–25 days; scarification may improve germination.
Planting density	No precise data; refer to Galápagos shrubs: plant spacing 30–40 cm, row spacing 40–50 cm, 20–30 plants per square meter to reduce competition.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Powdery mildew: Spray 25% Triadimefon WP 1500x
Leaf spot: Spray 70% Thiophanate-Methyl WP 800x
Root rot: Improve drainage, drench 50% Carbendazim WP 800x.

Pests

Aphids: Spray 10% Imidacloprid WP 1500x
Scale insects: Neem oil spray or introduce parasitic wasps
Caterpillars: Handpick or spray 2.5% Lambda-Cyhalothrin EC 2000x.

▍Applications

Conservation research

Iconic for adaptive radiation studies; subject of ex-situ conservation, propagation, reintroduction to restore wild populations .

Ecological use

Endemic keystone species for Santiago arid ecosystems; stabilizes lava/rocky slopes; nectar source for native pollinators .

Educational value

Symbol of Galápagos’ unique biodiversity; used in environmental education about island endemism and conservation threats.

Silphium perfoliatum

Image source:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Page

▍Morphological Features

Height: 2–3 m tall, up to 3.5 m in favorable conditions.
Stem: Erect, quadrangular, upper-branched, solid, succulent when young, 1.5–2.5 cm in diameter.
Leaves: Opposite, perfoliate, ovate, 15–30 cm long and 10–20 cm wide, base clasping stem to form a cup shape, margin coarsely toothed.

Flowers: Terminal corymbose capitula, 2–3 cm in diameter; ray florets yellow, disk florets yellow; flowering period June–September.
Fruit: Achenes flat, winged, heart-shaped, brown; fruiting period September–October.
Root system: Fibrous roots with creeping rhizomes, with a strong central taproot and extensive shallow rhizomes.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil type	Prefers moist, fertile, well-drained loam, pH 6.0–7.5, avoids waterlogging.
Germination temperature	15–22°C, germinates in 10–15 days, 1–2 weeks stratification recommended.
Planting density	Seedling spacing 40 × 60 cm, 7500–10000 plants per hectare.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Powdery mildew: Spray 25% Triadimefon WP 1500x
Leaf spot: Spray 70% Thiophanate-Methyl WP 800x
Root rot: Improve drainage and drench 50% Carbendazim WP 800x.

Pests

Aphids: Spray 10% Imidacloprid WP 1500x
Cutworms: Use Bt spray
Leaf beetles: Spray 2.5% Lambda-Cyhalothrin EC 2000x.

▍Applications

Forage use

High yield and high protein, used as feed for ruminants and monogastric animals.

Medicinal use

Contains caffeoylquinic acids with lipid-lowering and hepatoprotective effects.

Ecological use

For wetland restoration, soil stabilization and pollinator nectar source.

Ornamental use

Suitable for gardens, meadows and naturalistic landscapes.

Silybum marianum

Image source:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Page

▍Morphological Features

Height: Typically 1.0–2.0 m tall.
Stem: Erect, branched, ribbed, with white powdery coating and sparse arachnoid hairs.
Leaves: Basal leaves rosulate, elliptic or oblanceolate, pinnately lobed, with white markings and spiny margins; upper leaves smaller, clasping, spiny.

Flowers: Capitula terminal, 4–8 cm in diameter; involucre globose, phyllaries leathery and spiny; florets reddish-purple or white. Flowering period: June–July.
Fruit: Achenes oblong-ovate, compressed, blackish-brown, 7 mm long, with longitudinal stripes; pappus white, deciduous. Fruiting period: July–August.
Root system: Taproot robust, deep, with lateral fibrous roots, adapted to drought and poor soil.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil type	Prefers loose, fertile, well-drained sandy loam or loam, pH 6.0–8.0, drought-tolerant, avoids waterlogging.
Germination temperature	Optimal 18–25°C, germinates in 7–10 days; cold-resistant, can be sown in early spring.
Planting density	Row spacing 45–60 cm, plant spacing 20–30 cm, 60,000–90,000 plants per hectare.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Root rot: Improve drainage and drench with 50% Carbendazim WP 800x
Leaf spot: Spray 70% Thiophanate-Methyl WP 800x
Sclerotinia: Rotate with non-Compositae crops.

Pests

Aphids: Spray 10% Imidacloprid WP 1500x
Cutworms: Use poison baits or Bt preparation
Spider mites: Spray abamectin 1500x.

▍Applications

Medicinal use

Achenes rich in silymarin, used for liver protection, anti-hepatotoxicity, treating liver injury and fatty liver.

Ecological use

Drought-resistant, for slope stabilization, soil and water conservation, and barren land greening.

Ornamental use

Unique spiny foliage and purple flowers, suitable for rock gardens and wildflower landscapes.

Industrial use

Seeds can be used for oil extraction; silymarin is widely used in pharmaceutical and health products.

Solidago azorica

Image source:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Page

▍Morphological Features

Height: Typically 50–100 cm tall.
Stem: Erect, unbranched or sparsely branched at upper part, glabrous or slightly pubescent, green to reddish-green.
Leaves: Alternate, lanceolate to oblanceolate, margin serrulate, upper leaves sessile, lower leaves shortly petiolate, glabrous on both surfaces.

Flowers: Capitula small, golden-yellow, arranged in dense racemose or paniculate inflorescences; ray florets female, disk florets bisexual; flowering period July–September.
Fruit: Achenes cylindrical, small, with 8–12 longitudinal ribs, pappus white, bristly; fruiting period August–October.
Root system: Short rhizomes with fibrous root system, clump-forming, adapted to coastal and mountainous soils.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil type	Prefers well-drained, sandy or gravelly loam, neutral to slightly acidic, tolerant of poor and coastal soil, avoids waterlogging.
Germination temperature	Optimal 18–22°C, germinates in 10–15 days under light conditions.
Planting density	Row spacing 30–40 cm, plant spacing 20–25 cm, 90,000–120,000 plants per hectare.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Powdery mildew: Spray 25% Triadimefon WP 1500x
Leaf spot: Spray 70% Thiophanate-Methyl WP 800x
Root rot: Improve drainage, drench 50% Carbendazim WP 800x.

Pests

Aphids: Spray 10% Imidacloprid WP 1500x
Thrips: Spray 20% Acetamiprid EC 2000x
Spider mites: Spray abamectin 1500x.

▍Applications

Ornamental use

Bright yellow inflorescences, suitable for coastal gardens, rock gardens, wildflower landscapes and cut flowers.

Ecological use

Azores endemic species, used for slope stabilization, soil and water conservation, and native pollinator nectar source.

Conservation value

Protect island endemic biodiversity, used for ecological restoration and ex-situ conservation research.

Tagetes patula

Image source:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Page

▍Morphological Features

Height: Annual herb, 20–50 cm tall, up to 100 cm in favorable conditions.
Stem: Erect, branched from base, branches spreading, glabrous or slightly pubescent, often purplish.
Leaves: Opposite, pinnately divided, 2–9 cm long, 1.5–3 cm wide; lobes linear-lanceolate, margin serrate with glandular dots at base, aromatic.

Flowers: Capitula solitary, terminal, 3.5–4 cm in diameter; ray florets golden-yellow or orange with red blotches; disk florets yellow; flowering period June–October.
Fruit: Achenes linear, 8–12 mm long, black, pubescent; pappus scaly with 1–2 long awns; fruiting period September–October.
Root system: Taproot with fibrous lateral roots, shallow, well-branched, adapted to well-drained soil.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil type	Prefers loose, fertile, well-drained sandy loam or loam, pH 6.0–7.0, drought-tolerant, avoids waterlogging.
Germination temperature	Optimal 18–25°C, germinates in 5–7 days; light promotes germination.
Planting density	Row spacing 30–40 cm, plant spacing 20–30 cm, 90,000–120,000 plants per hectare.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Root rot: Improve drainage, drench with 50% Carbendazim WP 800x
Leaf spot: Spray 70% Thiophanate-Methyl WP 800x
Powdery mildew: Spray 25% Triadimefon WP 1500x.

Pests

Aphids: Spray 10% Imidacloprid WP 1500x
Thrips: Spray 20% Acetamiprid EC 2000x
Spider mites: Spray abamectin 1500x.

▍Applications

Ornamental use

Bright flowers, long bloom period; suitable for flower beds, borders, pots, cut flowers, and landscape decoration.

Medicinal use

Whole plant used for colds, coughs, dysentery, toothache; external use for carbuncles and swelling.

Ecological use

Root secretions repel nematodes; used for companion planting, soil improvement, and pollinator attraction.

Industrial use

Petals extract lutein for food coloring; essential oil for cosmetics and fragrances.

Tanacetum coccineum

Image source:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Page

▍Morphological Features

Height: Usually 25–50 cm tall .
Stem: Erect, single or few clustered, unbranched or sparsely branched, glabrous or slightly pubescent .
Leaves: Basal leaves ovate or oblong-elliptic, 4–8 cm long, 2.5–4 cm wide, bipinnately divided, petiole 2–10 cm; stem leaves smaller, sessile or subsessile; all leaves sparsely hairy or glabrous .

Flowers: Capitula solitary at stem apex, 1–1.5 cm in diameter; involucre cup-shaped; ray florets red, lamina ca. 1.6 cm long, apex 2–3 dentate; disk florets yellow; flowering period May–October .
Fruit: Achenes ca. 2.5 mm long, with 5–8 elliptical longitudinal ribs; corona 0.1–0.2 mm, margin shallowly lobed; fruiting period May–October .
Root system: Short rhizome with fibrous lateral roots, clump-forming, shallow and well-branched.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil type	Prefers loose, fertile, well-drained sandy loam or loam, pH 6.0–7.5, drought-tolerant, avoids waterlogging.
Germination temperature	Optimal 15–20°C, germinates in 7–10 days; light promotes germination.
Planting density	Row spacing 30–40 cm, plant spacing 20–25 cm, 90,000–120,000 plants per hectare.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Root rot: Improve drainage, drench with 50% Carbendazim WP 800x
Leaf spot: Spray 70% Thiophanate-Methyl WP 800x
Powdery mildew: Spray 25% Triadimefon WP 1500x.

Pests

Aphids: Spray 10% Imidacloprid WP 1500x
Leaf miners: Spray abamectin 1500x
Nematodes: Use soil fumigants or resistant varieties.

▍Applications

Ornamental use

Bright red daisy-like flowers, suitable for flower beds, borders, rock gardens, and cut flowers.

Medicinal use

Contains pyrethrins, used for natural insect repellent and external antipruritic preparations.

Ecological use

Attracts pollinators; used for companion planting to repel pests and improve soil health.

Industrial use

Flower heads extract pyrethrins for organic pesticides, cosmetics, and household insecticides.

Tanacetum parthenium (feverfew)

Image source:https://baike.baidu.com/

▍Morphological Features

Height: Typically 30–60 cm tall.
Stem: Erect, branched, green, glabrous or slightly pubescent, aromatic.
Leaves: Ovate, pinnately lobed, 3–15 cm long, light green, pubescent, strongly aromatic.

Flowers: Capitula 2–2.5 cm across, in loose corymbs; ray florets white, disk florets yellow; flowering July–August.
Fruit: Achenes small, 1.5–2 mm, ribbed; fruiting August–September.
Root system: Fibrous root system, shallow, clump-forming, well-branched.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil type	Prefers loose, fertile, well-drained sandy loam/loam, pH 6.0–7.5, drought-tolerant, avoids waterlogging.
Germination temperature	Optimal 15–20°C, germinates in 7–10 days; light promotes germination.
Planting density	Row spacing 30–40 cm, plant spacing 20–25 cm, 90,000–120,000 plants/ha.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Root rot: Improve drainage, drench with 50% Carbendazim WP 800x
Powdery mildew: Spray 25% Triadimefon WP 1500x
Leaf spot: Spray 70% Thiophanate-Methyl WP 800x.

Pests

Aphids: Spray 10% Imidacloprid WP 1500x
Leaf miners: Spray abamectin 1500x
Spider mites: Spray 1.8% abamectin EC 2000x.

▍Applications

Ornamental use

Daisy-like flowers, suitable for flower beds, borders, rock gardens, containers.

Medicinal use

Contains parthenolide; used for migraine prevention, fever, arthritis, menstrual pain.

Ecological use

Repels insects; companion planting to protect vegetables; attracts pollinators.

Industrial use

Extracts for natural insecticides, herbal supplements, and cosmetic ingredients.

Tanacetum vulgare (tansy)

Image source:https://baike.baidu.com/

▍Morphological Features

Height: Typically 50–150 cm tall.
Stem: Erect, single or clustered, glabrous, branched at upper part, base slightly woody .
Leaves: Alternate, elliptic/ovate, up to 25 cm long, bipinnately divided; lower leaves long-petioled, upper sessile; green, sparsely hairy, aromatic when crushed.

Flowers: Capitula small (0.5–1.3 cm), golden yellow, dense corymbs; all tubular florets; flowering July–September.
Fruit: Achenes 1.2–2 mm long, ribbed; corona 0.1–0.4 mm, shallowly toothed; fruiting August–October.
Root system: Shallow, fibrous, dense, clump-forming, competitive in upper soil layer.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil type	Prefers well-drained loam/sandy loam, pH 6.0–8.0; drought-tolerant, avoids waterlogging .
Germination temperature	Optimal 18–22°C; germinates in 10–14 days; light promotes germination.
Planting density	Row spacing 40–50 cm, plant spacing 30–35 cm; 60,000–80,000 plants/ha.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Root rot: Improve drainage, drench with 50% Carbendazim 800x
Powdery mildew: Spray 25% Triadimefon 1500x
Leaf spot: Spray 70% Thiophanate-Methyl 800x.

Pests

Aphids: 10% Imidacloprid 1500x
Leaf miners: Abamectin 1500x
Spider mites: 1.8% Abamectin EC 2000x.

▍Applications

Ornamental

Bright yellow button flowers; beds, borders, rock gardens, cut flowers.

Medicinal

Traditional use for fever, digestive issues, menstrual relief; contains toxic alkaloids (use with caution).

Ecological

Repels insects; companion planting for vegetables; attracts pollinators.

Industrial

Essential oil for natural insecticides, herbal products, and fragrances.

Tragopogon pratensis

Image source:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Page

▍Morphological Features

Height: 25–100 cm tall.
Stem: Erect, unbranched or branched, longitudinally grooved, glabrous, containing white latex.
Leaves: Alternate, linear or linear-lanceolate; lower leaves long, base enlarged and subamplexicaul, entire or undulate; upper leaves gradually smaller.

Flowers: Capitulum solitary at apex, involucre cylindrical; ligulate florets yellow, turning bluish-purple when dry, opening in the morning and closing at noon; flowering period May–September.
Fruit: Achenes grayish-black or grayish-brown, ca. 1.1 cm long, with longitudinal ribs and tuberculate projections, apex slender-beaked; pappus grayish-white; fruiting period August–October.
Root system: Fleshy taproot, cylindrical, vertically descending, with few lateral roots.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil type	Prefers loose, fertile, well-drained sandy loam or loam, pH 6.0–7.5, drought-tolerant, avoids waterlogging.
Germination temperature	Optimal 20–25°C, germinates in 7–10 days; light promotes germination.
Planting density	Row spacing 40–50 cm, plant spacing 25–30 cm, 60,000–80,000 plants per hectare.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Root rot: Improve drainage and drench with 50% Carbendazim WP 800x
Leaf spot: Spray 70% Thiophanate-Methyl WP 800x.

Pests

Aphids: Spray 10% Imidacloprid WP 1500x
Leaf miners: Spray abamectin 1500x
White grubs: Apply phoxim granules.

▍Applications

Edible use

Fleshy roots suitable for roasting, stewing, frying and soup; young leaves for salad or stir-fry.

Medicinal use

Traditionally used for jaundice, promoting digestion, diuresis and strengthening bones.

Ornamental use

Unique flower shape, used in flower borders, rock gardens, cut and dried flowers.

Ecological use

Nectar source for bees and butterflies; can be used as ground cover.

Blumea balsamifera

Image source:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Page

▍Morphological Features

Height: Perennial herb or subshrub, 1–3 m tall.
Stem: Erect, robust, base slightly woody; gray-brown bark with longitudinal ribs; densely tawny pubescent; internodes 2–6 cm.
Leaves: Alternate; lower leaves broadly elliptic or oblong-lanceolate, 22–25 cm long and 8–10 cm wide, petiolate with 3–5 pairs of linear appendages; upper leaves smaller, 7–12 cm long and 1.5–3.5 cm wide, sessile or short-petiolate; upper surface pubescent, lower surface densely silky-cottony; margin serrate; aromatic when crushed.

Flowers: Capitula numerous in panicles; involucre campanulate; florets yellow; female florets numerous, slender-tubular; bisexual florets few, tubular; flowering period March–May.
Fruit: Achenes cylindrical, 5–10 ribbed, densely pubescent; pappus reddish-brown, scabrous; fruiting period September–October.
Root system: Taproot system well-developed, vertical, extending to about 1.5 m; lateral roots abundant.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil type	Prefers loose, well-drained, acidic soil with pH 5.5–6.5; drought-tolerant, avoids waterlogging; adapts to sandy loam or loam.
Germination temperature	Optimal 20–25°C, germinates in 10–15 days; light promotes germination.
Planting density	Row spacing 50–60 cm, plant spacing 30–40 cm, about 40,000–55,000 plants per hectare.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Root rot: Improve drainage and drench with 50% Carbendazim WP 800x
Leaf spot: Spray 70% Thiophanate-Methyl WP 800x.

Pests

Aphids: Spray 10% Imidacloprid WP 1500x
Leaf miners: Spray abamectin 1500x
Spider mites: Spray abamectin 2000x.

▍Applications

Medicinal use

Source of natural borneol; used for resuscitation, heat-clearing and pain relief; treats cold, rheumatism, diarrhea and abdominal pain.

Industrial use

Essential oil for cosmetics, fragrances and natural insecticides.

Ecological use

Pioneer species for soil and water conservation; aromatic and pest-repellent.

Ornamental use

Tropical garden greenery with fragrant foliage.

Blumea hookeri

Image source:https://www.iplant.cn/

▍Morphological Features

Height: 0.8–1.5 m tall.
Stem: Erect, branched, base slightly woody, pubescent, slender internodes.
Leaves: Alternate, membranous; lower leaves obovate or oblong-lanceolate; upper leaves smaller, subsessile; nearly glabrous or sparsely pubescent on both surfaces, margin dentate, apex acute.

Flowers: Capitula arranged in panicles; involucre campanulate; florets yellow; female florets numerous, slender-tubular; bisexual florets tubular; flowering period November–February.
Fruit: Achenes cylindrical, ribbed, pubescent; pappus white or reddish-brown, scabrous; fruiting period March–May.
Root system: Taproot system moderately developed, with fibrous lateral roots, adapted to moist mountain slopes.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil type	Prefers moist, well-drained loam or sandy loam, acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0), avoids waterlogging; native to wet mountain slopes at about 2800 m altitude.
Germination temperature	Optimal 18–22°C, germinates in 15–20 days, light-sensitive.
Planting density	Row spacing 40–50 cm, plant spacing 25–30 cm, about 60,000–80,000 plants per hectare.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Root rot: Improve drainage and drench with 50% Carbendazim WP 800x
Leaf spot: Spray 70% Thiophanate-Methyl WP 800x.

Pests

Aphids: Spray 10% Imidacloprid WP 1500x
Leaf miners: Spray abamectin 1500x
Spider mites: Spray abamectin 2000x.

▍Applications

Medicinal use

Traditional herb with anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antipyretic effects, used for cold, rheumatism and abdominal pain.

Ecological use

Pioneer species for soil and water conservation on high-altitude moist slopes.

Industrial use

Source of volatile oils for natural fragrances and insect repellents.

Ornamental use

Rare alpine garden greenery with aromatic foliage.

Blumea membranacea

Image source:https://baike.baidu.com/

▍Morphological Features

Height: Annual herb, 0.3–1 m tall.
Stem: Erect, branched or rarely unbranched; base 2–5 mm thick, with coarse ribs; lower part sparsely glandular-pubescent, upper part and inflorescence axis densely pubescent; internodes 3–5 cm.
Leaves: Alternate; lower leaves obovate/oblong-lanceolate, 9–15 cm (including petiole) × 4–5 cm, lyrate/pinnatifid, apex acute, margin serrate, both surfaces sparsely pubescent, petiole 3–4 cm; upper leaves smaller, 2–4 cm × 1–2 cm, sessile or subsessile, undivided, margin irregularly serrate.

Flowers: Capitula 5–7 mm in diameter, 3–5 clustered or in narrow panicles; involucre cylindrical, 5 mm long; florets yellow; female florets numerous, slender-tubular; bisexual florets few, tubular; flowering period August–October.
Fruit: Achenes cylindrical, ~0.7 mm long, sparsely pubescent; pappus white; fruiting period October–December.
Root system: Taproot system shallowly developed, fibrous lateral roots abundant; adapted to moist, loose soil.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil type	Prefers loose, well-drained sandy loam/loam, pH 5.5–7.0; drought-tolerant, avoids waterlogging; native to tropical/subtropical moist slopes.
Germination temperature	Optimal 20–25°C, germinates in 10–15 days; light promotes germination.
Planting density	Row spacing 40–50 cm, plant spacing 20–30 cm, ~65,000–85,000 plants per hectare.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Root rot: Improve drainage + drench with 50% Carbendazim WP 800×
Leaf spot: Spray 70% Thiophanate-Methyl WP 800×.

Pests

Aphids: Spray 10% Imidacloprid WP 1500×
Leaf miners: Spray abamectin 1500×
Spider mites: Spray abamectin 2000×.

▍Applications

Medicinal use

Traditional herb for anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, analgesic; treats cold, rheumatism, abdominal pain; aromatic for external use.

Ecological use

Pioneer herb for soil & water conservation in tropical/subtropical slopes; weed-suppressive.

Industrial use

Source of volatile oils for natural fragrances, insect repellents, and cosmetics.

Ornamental use

Compact herb for tropical garden borders and potted greenery.

Blumea oblongifolia

Image source:https://baike.baidu.com/

▍Morphological Features

Height: 0.5–1.5 m tall.
Stem: Erect, branched; lower part sparsely hairy or glabrescent, upper part densely pubescent; internodes slender.
Leaves: Alternate; middle stem leaves oblong/narrow elliptic-oblong, 9–14 cm × 2–4 cm, base cuneate, margin revolute with double serrations, upper surface pubescent, lower surface slightly pilose, sub?sessile; upper leaves smaller, oblong?lanceolate, 4–5.5 cm, acute teeth, sessile.

Flowers: Capitula 0.8–1.2 cm in diameter, in terminal spreading panicles; peduncles up to 2 cm, densely pilose; involucre globose?campanulate, ~1 cm long; florets yellow; female numerous, slender?tubular; bisexual few, tubular; flowering period September–November.
Fruit: Achenes cylindrical, 1–1.1 mm long, sparsely white hispid; pappus white; fruiting period November–January.
Root system: Taproot system with well?developed fibrous lateral roots, adapted to moist, loose soils.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil type	Prefers well?drained loam/sandy loam, pH 5.5–7.0; tolerant to moderate drought, avoids waterlogging; native to roadsides, fields, grasslands, valleys.
Germination temperature	Optimal 20–25°C, germinates in 12–18 days; light?sensitive.
Planting density	Row spacing 40–50 cm, plant spacing 25–30 cm, ~60,000–75,000 plants per hectare.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Root rot: Improve drainage + drench with 50% Carbendazim WP 800×
Leaf spot: Spray 70% Thiophanate?Methyl WP 800×.

Pests

Aphids: Spray 10% Imidacloprid WP 1500×
Leaf miners: Spray abamectin 1500×
Spider mites: Spray abamectin 2000×.

▍Applications

Medicinal use

Traditional herb with anti?inflammatory, antipyretic, analgesic effects; treats cold, rheumatism, abdominal pain; contains alkaloids, phenols, flavonoids .

Ecological use

Pioneer herb for soil & water conservation in subtropical slopes; weed?suppressive.

Industrial use

Source of volatile oils for natural fragrances and insect repellents.

Ornamental use

Compact herb for subtropical garden borders and potted greenery.

Blumea megacephala

Image source:https://baike.baidu.com/

▍Morphological Features

Height: Climbing herbaceous vine / subshrub, 1–3 m tall.
Stem: Cylindrical, branched, with distinct grooves; sparsely hairy or glabrescent; internodes 6–12 cm (smaller branches: 2–4 cm); young branches densely pubescent.
Leaves: Alternate; lower/middle leaves ovate/oblong-elliptic, 7–10 cm × 2.5–4 cm, base rounded, margin sparsely serrate/denticulate, upper surface sparsely hairy (glabrescent), lower surface glabrous/sparsely hairy, petiole 2–6 mm; upper leaves smaller (2–5 cm × 1–1.5 cm), short-petioled, finely serrate.

Flowers: Capitula large, 1.5–2 cm diameter, 1–7 in racemes/corymbs, forming large panicles; peduncles 1–3 cm, densely pilose; involucre hemispheric, 5–6 layers; florets yellow; female numerous (slender-tubular), bisexual few (tubular); flowering period August–December.
Fruit: Achenes cylindrical/oblong, 1.2–1.4 mm, 10-ribbed, sparsely pubescent; pappus white, 4–6 mm; fruiting period December–February.
Root system: Taproot system with well-developed fibrous lateral roots; adapted to moist, loose soils.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil type	Prefers well-drained loam/sandy loam, pH 5.5–7.0; drought-tolerant, avoids waterlogging; native to tropical/subtropical slopes, thickets, roadsides.
Germination temperature	Optimal 20–28°C, germinates in 10–15 days; light promotes germination.
Planting density	Row spacing 50–60 cm, plant spacing 30–40 cm, ~40,000–55,000 plants per hectare.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Root rot: Improve drainage + drench with 50% Carbendazim WP 800×
Leaf spot: Spray 70% Thiophanate-Methyl WP 800×.

Pests

Aphids: Spray 10% Imidacloprid WP 1500×
Leaf miners: Spray abamectin 1500×
Spider mites: Spray abamectin 2000×.

▍Applications

Medicinal use

Traditional herb for dispelling wind, dampness, activating blood, regulating menstruation; treats rheumatism, traumatic swelling, postpartum hemorrhage, irregular menstruation; external for boils.

Ecological use

Climbing pioneer for slope greening & soil conservation in tropical/subtropical areas.

Industrial use

Contains flavonoids; potential source of volatile oils for natural fragrances.

Ornamental use

Climbing foliage for tropical garden trellises and vertical greening.

Schischkinia albispina

Image source:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Page

▍Morphological Features

Height: 3–10 cm tall .
Stem: Main stem very short, much branched from base; stems white, covered with short scabrous hairs .
Leaves: Alternate, oblong/oblanceolate/spathulate, 2–5 cm × 0.2–0.3 cm; apex obtuse, margin with rigid white spines (simple or 2–4 palmate); base attenuate into short petiole; green, glabrous or sparsely scabrous beneath .

Flowers: Capitula solitary at branch ends, enclosed by bracts; involucre ovoid-elliptic, 4–5 mm diam.; florets yellow; marginal florets neuter, corolla 5–6 mm; central disk florets bisexual, corolla 5.5 mm; flowering period July–August.
Fruit: Achenes oblong-ovoid, 4 mm × 2.5 mm, glabrous, smooth, without ribs; apex with denticulate margin; pappus white, 2-seriate, outer series 7 mm, inner 9 mm; fruiting period August–September .
Root system: Taproot system with shallow, fibrous lateral roots, adapted to arid, sandy soils.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil type	Prefers well-drained sandy/loamy soil, pH 7.0–8.5; drought-tolerant, avoids waterlogging; native to arid slopes, gravelly deserts, saline-alkali lands (Xinjiang, Central Asia).
Germination temperature	Optimal 15–25°C, germinates in 15–20 days; light promotes germination.
Planting density	Row spacing 20–30 cm, plant spacing 10–15 cm, ~150,000–200,000 plants per hectare (wild/conservation only).

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Root rot: Improve drainage + drench with 50% Carbendazim WP 800×
Leaf spot: Spray 70% Thiophanate-Methyl WP 800×.

Pests

Aphids: Spray 10% Imidacloprid WP 1500×
Spider mites: Spray abamectin 2000×.

▍Applications

Ecological use

Pioneer species for desert/saline-alkali soil restoration; sand fixation, slope stabilization in arid zones.

Medicinal use

Minor traditional use for anti-inflammatory, analgesic; external for minor wounds (local folk use).

Ornamental use

Dwarf, spiny foliage for rock gardens, xeriscaping, desert-themed landscaping.

Eschenbachia aegyptiaca

Image source:https://baike.baidu.com/

▍Morphological Features

Height: 30–80 cm tall。
Stem: Erect or ascending, branched from upper part; cylindrical, densely covered with gray-white long hairs + glandular hairs。
Leaves: Alternate; lower/middle leaves oblong-lanceolate, 4–10 cm × 1–2.5 cm, base attenuate and semi-amplexicaul, margin pinnately lobed/serrate, both surfaces with gray-white hairs + glandular hairs; upper leaves smaller, linear-lanceolate。

Flowers: Capitula 1.2–1.5 cm diameter, 2–6 in corymbs; involucre hemispheric, 3–4 layers; florets yellow; female numerous (filiform), bisexual few (tubular); flowering period July–October。
Fruit: Achenes oblong, 0.8–1 mm, compressed, puberulent; pappus white, 3–4 mm; fruiting period September–November 。
Root system: Taproot system with fusiform main root + numerous fibrous lateral roots。

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil type	Prefers well-drained sandy loam/loam, pH 6.0–7.5; drought-tolerant, avoids waterlogging; native to coastal wastelands, roadsides。
Germination temperature	Optimal 20–28°C, germinates in 7–12 days; light promotes germination 。
Planting density	Row spacing 30–40 cm, plant spacing 20–25 cm, ~80,000–110,000 plants per hectare 。

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Root rot: Improve drainage + drench with 50% Carbendazim WP 800×
Leaf spot: Spray 70% Thiophanate-Methyl WP 800× 。

Pests

Aphids: Spray 10% Imidacloprid WP 1500×
Leaf miners: Spray abamectin 1500× 。

▍Applications

Medicinal use

Traditional herb for heat-clearing, detoxification, anti-inflammatory, analgesic; treats cold, cough, sore throat, enteritis; external for eczema, boils 。

Ecological use

Pioneer for coastal/wasteland greening & soil stabilization; adapts to poor soils。

Ornamental use

Wildflower for natural gardens, roadside landscaping; yellow flowers attract pollinators 。

Eschenbachia japonica

Image source:https://baike.baidu.com/

▍Morphological Features

Height: Annual/biennial herb, 20–45 cm (occasionally taller).
Stem: Erect, slender, ribbed; branched from base or upper part; densely white long hairs/scabrous hairs; base 2–4 mm thick.
Leaves: Alternate; basal rosette leaves obovate/spathulate, 6–7 cm; lower leaves long-petiolate (3–13 cm), oblong/oblanceolate, margin crenate/serrate; middle leaves 3.5–5 cm × 0.5–1.5 cm, sessile, semi-amplexicaul, small sharp teeth; upper leaves linear-lanceolate; all with white hairs.

Flowers: Capitula ~1.1 cm diam., dense globose/corymbose at apex; involucre hemispheric 0.8–1 cm, 3–4 layers; florets yellow; female numerous (filiform), bisexual 15–16 (tubular); flowering May–September.
Fruit: Achenes oblong, 1–1.2 mm, yellow, compressed, margin ribbed, puberulent; pappus dirty white/reddish, 4.5 mm, scabrous; fruiting August–October.
Root system: Taproot system with slender main root + fibrous lateral roots.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil type	Prefers well-drained sandy loam/loam, pH 6.0–7.5; drought-tolerant, avoids waterlogging; grows in wastelands, roadsides, hillsides.
Germination temperature	Optimal 18–26°C, germinates in 7–14 days; light promotes germination.
Planting density	Row spacing 25–35 cm, plant spacing 15–20 cm, ~100,000–130,000 plants/ha.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Root rot: Improve drainage + drench 50% Carbendazim WP 800×
Leaf spot: Spray 70% Thiophanate-Methyl WP 800×.

Pests

Aphids: Spray 10% Imidacloprid WP 1500×
Leaf miners: Spray abamectin 1500×.

▍Applications

Medicinal use

Whole plant/root for heat-clearing, detox, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, expectorant; treats cold, cough, sore throat, enteritis, rheumatism; external for eczema, boils .

Ecological use

Pioneer for wasteland/roadside greening & soil stabilization; adapts to poor soils.

Ornamental use

Wildflower for natural gardens, rockeries; yellow capitula attract pollinators.

Eschenbachia stricta

Image source:https://baike.baidu.com/

▍Morphological Features

Height: 30–65 cm tall .
Stem: Erect, base 3–5 mm thick, ribbed; much branched (corymbose), slender and straight; densely gray-white scabrous pubescence throughout .
Leaves: Alternate, dense; lower/middle leaves spathulate-obovate, 3–5.5 cm × 0.5–1.3 cm, base cuneate into slender petiole, margin coarsely toothed/pinnately lobed, both sides gray-white scabrous; upper/branch leaves linear-lanceolate, 1.2–2 cm × 2–4 mm, sessile, entire, 1-veined; axils often with 2–4 small leaf clusters .

Flowers: Capitula very small, 2–3 mm diam., extremely numerous in dense compound corymbs; involucre hemispheric (~3 mm), 3-layered; florets yellow; female filiform, bisexual tubular; flowering/fruiting September–November.
Fruit: Achenes oblong, ~0.6 mm, glandular; pappus pale red, 2-layered (outer very short, inner bristle-like).
Root system: Taproot system; main root woody, fusiform, often curved, with numerous fibrous lateral roots .

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil type	Prefers well-drained sandy loam/loam, pH 6.0–7.5; drought-tolerant, avoids waterlogging; grows in wastelands, roadsides, hillsides.
Germination temperature	Optimal 20–28°C, germinates in 7–12 days; light promotes germination.
Planting density	Row spacing 25–35 cm, plant spacing 15–20 cm, ~100,000–130,000 plants/ha.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Root rot: Improve drainage + drench 50% Carbendazim WP 800×
Leaf spot: Spray 70% Thiophanate-Methyl WP 800×.

Pests

Aphids: Spray 10% Imidacloprid WP 1500×
Leaf miners: Spray abamectin 1500×.

▍Applications

Medicinal use

Whole plant/root for heat-clearing, detoxification, anti-inflammatory, analgesic; treats cold, cough, sore throat, enteritis; external for eczema, boils.

Ecological use

Pioneer for wasteland/roadside greening & soil stabilization; adapts to poor soils.

Ornamental use

Wildflower for natural gardens, rockeries; small yellow capitula attract pollinators.

Eschenbachia muliensis

Image source:https://baike.baidu.com/

▍Morphological Features

Height: Perennial herb, 5–13 cm tall.
Stem: Single or 2–3 clustered; erect, slender, unbranched; covered with gray-white short stiff hairs + appressed pubescence .
Leaves: Basal leaves form rosette, spathulate/obovate, 2–5 cm × 0.3–0.5 cm, winged petiole, upper margin sparsely serrated ; lower stem leaves linear/linear?oblanceolate, 2–3.5 cm × 0.1–0.3 cm, sessile, sparsely serrated ; upper leaves linear, small, entire; all with scabrous hairs on margins .

Flowers: Capitula 3–4 in terminal corymb (rarely solitary); involucre campanulate; florets yellow; female filiform, bisexual tubular; flowering June.
Fruit: Achenes oblong, 1–1.2 mm, compressed, margin ribbed, sparsely appressed hairy + glandular; pappus dirty white, 1 layer, scabrous, 3–3.5 mm .
Root system: Woody rhizome with ascending branches; fibrous?rooted, neck with brown persistent leaf bases .

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil type	Native to Sichuan (Muli), 2200 m elevation; prefers well?drained sandy loam/loam, neutral?slightly acidic; avoids waterlogging.
Germination temperature	No published data; reference genus: 18–26°C, light?promoted, 7–14 days.
Planting density	No published data; reference genus: row spacing 25–35 cm, plant spacing 15–20 cm.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Root rot: Improve drainage + drench with 50% Carbendazim WP 800×
Leaf spot: Spray 70% Thiophanate-Methyl WP 800×.

Pests

Aphids: Spray 10% Imidacloprid WP 1500×
Leaf miners: Spray abamectin 1500×.

▍Applications

Medicinal use

Traditional folk use (local Sichuan); whole plant for heat?clearing, anti?inflammatory, analgesic; external for wounds/eczema.

Ecological use

Rare alpine herb, suitable for rock gardens, alpine greening, soil stabilization in high?elevation areas.

Ornamental use

Compact rosette + small yellow capitula; used in miniature gardens, alpine rockeries.

Eschenbachia leucantha

Image source:https://baike.baidu.com/

▍Morphological Features

Height: 40–120 cm tall.
Stem: Erect, green/purple; base 3–5 mm thick, ribbed; densely dust?like glandular pubescent; branched (lower spreading, upper forked).
Leaves: Dense; lower leaves wither at flowering; middle leaves elliptic?oblong/oblong?lanceolate, 7–14 cm × 2.5–3.5 cm, short?petiolate, margin sharp?tipped serrate, both sides glandular pubescent; upper leaves smaller, oblong?lanceolate, uppermost 3–5 cm, sub?sessile, entire/finely toothed.

Flowers: Capitula 7 mm diam., numerous in broad paniculate clusters; peduncles 3–9 mm, densely glandular pubescent; involucre campanulate; flowers white; female filiform, bisexual tubular (6–9); flowering/fruiting September–December.
Fruit: Achenes oblong, ~0.6 mm, margin ribbed, sparsely pubescent; pappus 1 layer, pale red, bristle?like, base connate, deciduous.
Root system: Taproot fusiform, woody, with numerous fibrous lateral roots.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil type	Prefers well?drained loam/sandy loam, pH 6.0–7.5; drought?tolerant, avoids waterlogging; grows in wastelands, roadsides, hillsides.
Germination temperature	No published data; reference genus: 20–28°C, light?promoted, 7–12 days.
Planting density	No published data; reference genus: row spacing 25–35 cm, plant spacing 15–20 cm, ~100,000–130,000 plants/ha.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Root rot: Improve drainage + drench with 50% Carbendazim WP 800×
Leaf spot: Spray 70% Thiophanate-Methyl WP 800×.

Pests

Aphids: Spray 10% Imidacloprid WP 1500×
Leaf miners: Spray abamectin 1500×.

▍Applications

Medicinal use

Whole plant for heat?clearing, detoxification, anti?inflammatory, analgesic; treats cold, cough, enteritis; external for eczema, boils, wounds.

Ecological use

Pioneer for wasteland/roadside greening & soil stabilization; adapts to poor soils.

Ornamental use

Wildflower for natural gardens, rockeries; white capitula attract pollinators.

Leucomeris decora

Image source:https://baike.baidu.com/

▍Morphological Features

Height: Deciduous small tree, 2–5 m tall.
Stem: Erect, with obvious longitudinal stripes; young branches white, densely tomentose; base woody, robust.
Leaves: Papery, elliptic/oblong?lanceolate, 8–18 cm × 3–6 cm; apex short?acuminate/obtuse, base broadly cuneate; margin shallowly undulate, with sparse callose teeth; upper surface glabrous, lower surface tomentose; petiole 1.5–4 cm, sparsely hairy.

Flowers: Capitula ~1 cm diam., 8–12+ in terminal compound capitula; involucre obconical, 4–5 mm; phyllaries 6–7 layers; flowers white, bisexual, tubular, 5?deep lobed, lobes curled; blooms March–April (before leaves).
Fruit: Achenes cylindrical, ~1.2 cm, ribbed, densely appressed sericeous; pappus pale red, unequal, 1.3–1.5 cm.
Root system: Taproot system, woody taproot with well?developed lateral roots; adapted to mountainous soil.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil type	Native to Yunnan (1100–1900 m), mountain forests; prefers well?drained loam/sandy loam, slightly acidic?neutral (pH 5.5–7.0); avoids waterlogging.
Germination temperature	No published data; reference woody Compositae: 20–28°C, light?promoted, 15–25 days.
Planting density	No published data; reference small trees: spacing 3–4 m × 3–4 m, ~800–1100 plants/ha.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Root rot: Improve drainage + drench with 50% Carbendazim WP 800×
Leaf spot: Spray 70% Thiophanate-Methyl WP 800×.

Pests

Aphids: Spray 10% Imidacloprid WP 1500×
Scale insects: Spray 40% Omethoate EC 1000×.

▍Applications

Ornamental use

Rare woody Compositae ("chrysanthemum tree"); blooms before leaves, white flowers + graceful form; used in gardens, parks, scenic areas.

Ecological use

National Class II protected plant; important for biodiversity conservation, plant systematics research; suitable for mountain greening & soil stabilization.

Scientific value

Key for studying Compositae evolution & woody herb transition; high research significance.

Stilpnolepis centiflora

Image source:https://baike.baidu.com/

▍Morphological Features

Height: About 40 cm tall.
Stem: Erect, branched, with longitudinal stripes; sericeous pubescent; base slightly woody.
Leaves: Linear, sessile, 3.5–10 cm × 2.5–4 mm, 3?veined; both sides sparsely pubescent; apex acuminate; base with 2–3 pairs of pinnate lobes (lobes linear, spreading).

Flowers: Capitula hemispherical, nodding, 8–20 mm in diameter; arranged in loose corymbs; flowers yellow, bisexual, numerous; blooming/fruiting September–October.
Fruit: Achenes fusiform, 5–6 mm, indistinctly ribbed, densely glandular; no pappus; small and light, adapted for wind dispersal.
Root system: Robust taproot system, fusiform main root; well?adapted to desert sandy soils.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil type	Well?drained sandy soil / loamy sand, neutral to slightly alkaline; drought?tolerant, avoids waterlogging.
Germination temperature	Optimal 20–30°C (reference desert Asteraceae); light?promoted germination, 7–15 days.
Planting density	Row spacing 30–40 cm, plant spacing 20–25 cm; ~80,000–120,000 plants/ha (reference desert herbs).

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Root rot: Improve drainage + drench with 50% Carbendazim WP 800×.

Pests

Aphids: Spray 10% Imidacloprid WP 1500×
Spider mites: Spray abamectin EC 1500×.

▍Applications

Medical use

No established medical use; research focus on ecological adaptation.

Essential oils

Limited data; potential for minor aromatic compounds.

Ecological role

Desert pioneer species; critical for fixing mobile sand dunes and restoring desert ecosystems.

Blainvillea acmella

Image source:https://baike.baidu.com/

▍Morphological Features

Height: 40–60 cm tall.
Stem: Erect, much branched; lower branches opposite, upper alternate; with fine grooves, sparsely spreading pubescent; internodes 7–11 cm.
Leaves: Lower leaves opposite, petioles up to 1 cm; blades ovate to ovate-lanceolate, 4–7 cm × 2–3 cm, apex acuminate, base cuneate, margin sparsely serrate, both surfaces scabrous-hispid. Upper leaves smaller, alternate, ovate or ovate-oblong, 2–3 cm × 1.3–1.5 cm, base often rounded.

Flowers: Capitula axillary or terminal, ~1 cm in diameter; peduncles 1.5–4 cm, scabrous-hispid. Involucre 2-seriate; outer phyllaries herbaceous, green, ovate-oblong; inner ovate-oblong to linear-oblong. Ray florets 1-seriate, yellow or yellowish-white, ligule short, apex 2–4-toothed; disk florets tubular, 5-lobed.
Fruit: Achenes: female 3-angled, bisexual flattened; dark brown when dry, densely pubescent; pappus of 2–5 unequal bristles.
Root system: Taproot system with fibrous lateral roots; shallow, adapted to well-drained soils.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil type	Prefers loose, fertile, well-drained sandy loam or loam; pH 6.0–7.5; drought-tolerant, avoids waterlogging; grows in wastelands, roadsides, open slopes.
Germination temperature	Optimal 22–30°C; light-promoted germination; sowing depth 0.5–1 cm; emergence in 7–10 days.
Planting density	Row spacing 30–40 cm, plant spacing 20–25 cm; ~80,000–100,000 plants/ha.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Root rot: Improve drainage + drench with 50% Carbendazim WP 800×
Leaf spot: Spray 70% Thiophanate-Methyl WP 800×.

Pests

Aphids: Spray 10% Imidacloprid WP 1500×
Leaf miners: Spray abamectin 1500×.

▍Applications

Medicinal use

Whole plant used for anti-inflammatory, analgesic, detoxicating; treats toothache, cold, cough, enteritis; external for wounds, eczema, snakebites.

Ecological use

Pioneer species for wasteland greening, soil stabilization; adapts to poor soils.

Ornamental use

Compact habit with yellow capitula; suitable for herb gardens, rockeries, natural landscaping.

Zinnia elegans

Image source:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Page

▍Morphological Features

Height: Annual herb, 30–100 cm tall .
Stem: Erect, stout; green with purplish-red tinge; covered with coarse hairs or stiff bristles; base with fine longitudinal ribs .
Leaves: Opposite, broadly ovate to oblong-elliptic, 5–10 cm × 2.5–5 cm, entire; base slightly cordate and clasping stem; both surfaces rough, lower surface densely short-hispid; 3 basal veins .

Flowers: Capitula solitary at branch apices, 5–10 cm diameter; involucre broadly campanulate; ray florets (female) deep red, rose, purple, or white, ligule obovate, apex 2–3-toothed or entire; disk florets (bisexual) yellow or orange, tubular .
Fruit: Achenes flattened; female achenes obovate, 6–7 mm; bisexual achenes obovate-cuneate, 7–8 mm, sparsely hairy; apex truncate or short-toothed.
Root system: Taproot conical, tapering downward with abundant fibrous lateral roots; moderately deep .

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil type	Prefers fertile, loose, well-drained loam or sandy loam; pH 6.0–7.5; drought-tolerant, avoids waterlogging; adapts to poor soils.
Germination temperature	Optimal 20–28°C; light-promoted; sowing depth 0.5–1 cm; emergence in 5–7 days.
Planting density	Row spacing 30–40 cm, plant spacing 20–25 cm; dwarf varieties: 15–20 cm spacing; ~80,000–100,000 plants/ha.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Powdery mildew: Improve ventilation + spray 15% Triadimefon WP 1500×
Root rot: Enhance drainage + drench 50% Carbendazim WP 800×
Leaf spot: Spray 70% Thiophanate-Methyl WP 800×.

Pests

Aphids: Spray 10% Imidacloprid WP 1500×
Thrips/Leaf miners: Spray abamectin 1500×
Cutworms: Soil treatment with chlorpyrifos granules.

▍Applications

Ornamental use

Excellent for flower beds, borders, rockeries, and mass planting; tall varieties for cut flowers (long vase life); dwarf types for pots and container gardens.

Medicinal use

Whole plant used in folk medicine for heat-clearing, dampness-removing, detoxification; treats dysentery, urinary infections, mastitis, and boils.

Ecological use

Strong resistance to hydrogen fluoride; suitable for industrial area greening; moderate cadmium accumulation for soil remediation.

Zinnia peruviana

Image source:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Page

▍Morphological Features

Height: 15–90 cm (commonly 30–50 cm) tall .
Stem: Erect, dichotomously branched; green, later yellowish or purplish; covered with coarse hairs or long villi; base with fine longitudinal ribs .
Leaves: Opposite, lanceolate to narrowly ovate-lanceolate, 2.5–6 cm × 0.5–1.7 cm; base rounded, semi-clasping; both surfaces scabrous-pubescent; 3 basal veins prominent beneath .

Flowers: Capitula in corymbose panicles, 2.5–3.8 cm diameter; peduncles inflated, hollow, 2–6 cm long . Involucre campanulate; ray florets yellow, purplish-red or red, ligule elliptic, entire or 2–3-toothed; disk florets reddish-yellow, tubular, 5-lobed .
Fruit: Achenes (cypselae): female achenes narrowly cuneate, ~10 mm long, 3-angled, densely hairy; bisexual achenes oblong-cuneate, 8.5–10 mm, strongly flattened, with 1–2 awns and ciliate margins .
Root system: Taproot with fibrous lateral roots; moderately shallow, adapted to well-drained soils.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil type	Prefers fertile, loose, well-drained loam or sandy loam; pH 6.0–7.5; drought-tolerant, avoids waterlogging; naturalized on slopes, grasslands, roadsides.
Germination temperature	Optimal 20–28°C; light-promoted; sowing depth 0.5–1 cm; emergence in 5–7 days.
Planting density	Row spacing 30–40 cm, plant spacing 20–25 cm; ~80,000–100,000 plants/ha.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Powdery mildew: Improve ventilation + spray 15% Triadimefon WP 1500×
Root rot: Enhance drainage + drench 50% Carbendazim WP 800×
Leaf spot: Spray 70% Thiophanate-Methyl WP 800×.

Pests

Aphids: Spray 10% Imidacloprid WP 1500×
Thrips/Leaf miners: Spray abamectin 1500×
Cutworms: Soil treatment with chlorpyrifos granules.

▍Applications

Ornamental use

Mass planting, flower beds, borders, rockeries; compact habit with colorful blooms; suitable for naturalistic landscaping.

Ecological use

Pioneer species for slope greening and soil stabilization; adapts to poor, disturbed soils.

Medicinal use

Folk use for heat-clearing, detoxification, anti-inflammatory; treats cold, cough, and minor skin ailments.

Zinnia haageana

Image source:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Page

▍Morphological Features

Height: Annual herb, 30–60 cm tall (compact cultivars: 15–45 cm).
Stem: Erect, branched; green to purplish; covered with coarse strigose hairs; base slightly ribbed.
Leaves: Opposite, lanceolate to narrowly lanceolate, ~3.5 cm × 0.7 cm; sessile, base slightly cordate-clasping; both surfaces scabrous-pubescent; 3 prominent basal veins.

Flowers: Capitula solitary at apex, 2–3 cm diameter; peduncles densely hairy; involucre broadly campanulate; ray florets orange-yellow, brown-red, or white; disk florets orange; ligule oblong, hairy.
Fruit: Achenes obovate, flattened, 2-angled, ~3.5 mm long; sparsely hairy; apex truncate.
Root system: Taproot with fibrous lateral roots; moderately shallow, adapted to well-drained soils.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil type	Prefers loose, fertile, well-drained loam/sandy loam; pH 5.5–8.5; drought-tolerant, avoids waterlogging.
Germination temperature	Optimal 20–28°C; light-promoted; sowing depth 0.5–1 cm; emergence in 5–7 days.
Planting density	Row spacing 25–35 cm, plant spacing 15–20 cm; ~100,000–120,000 plants/ha; compact types: 10–15 cm spacing.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Powdery mildew: Improve ventilation + spray 15% Triadimefon WP 1500×
Root rot: Enhance drainage + drench 50% Carbendazim WP 800×
Leaf spot: Spray 70% Thiophanate-Methyl WP 800×.

Pests

Aphids: Spray 10% Imidacloprid WP 1500×
Thrips/Leaf miners: Spray abamectin 1500×
Cutworms: Soil treatment with chlorpyrifos granules.

▍Applications

Ornamental use

Compact habit for flower beds, borders, rockeries, mass planting, containers, and pollinator gardens; long bloom period (7–11 months).

Ecological use

Drought/heat-tolerant; suitable for slope greening, roadside landscaping, and xeriscaping.

Medicinal use

Folk use for heat-clearing, detoxification; minor anti-inflammatory applications.

Strobocalyx esculenta

Image source:https://baike.baidu.com/

▍Morphological Features

Height: 3–4 m tall .
Stem: Erect, cylindrical, slightly ribbed; green to grayish-brown; densely covered with gray or brownish-gray tomentum; base with fine longitudinal stripes .
Leaves: Alternate, hard papery, oblong-lanceolate/lanceolate, 10–23 cm × 3–8 cm; apex acuminate, base cuneate; margin entire or slightly undulate; both surfaces scabrous with papillae, pubescent beneath; 9–13 pairs of lateral veins; petiole 5–20 mm, densely tomentose .

Flowers: Capitula numerous, 2–4 mm diameter, 5–6 florets each; arranged in dense broad panicles at branch apices; peduncles 2–5 mm, densely tomentose; involucre obconic, 2–3 mm; florets pale reddish-purple, tubular, ~7 mm long .
Fruit: Achenes subcylindrical, slightly compressed, ~3 mm long, pale yellowish-brown, slightly ribbed, sparsely pubescent; pappus 2-layered, white or pale brown.
Root system: Taproot system with well-developed lateral roots; deep, adapted to well-drained mountain soils.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil type	Prefers loose, fertile, well-drained loam/sandy loam; pH 5.5–7.5; drought-tolerant; grows naturally on sunny slopes, grasslands, thickets, forest edges at 1000–2700 m elevation.
Germination temperature	Optimal 20–28°C; light-favored; sowing depth 0.5–1 cm; emergence in 7–10 days.
Planting density	Row spacing 2–3 m, plant spacing 1.5–2 m; ~2000–3000 plants/ha (for shrub cultivation).

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Leaf spot: Improve ventilation + spray 70% Thiophanate-Methyl WP 800×
Root rot: Enhance drainage + drench 50% Carbendazim WP 800×.

Pests

Aphids: Spray 10% Imidacloprid WP 1500×
Leaf miners: Spray abamectin 1500×
Scale insects: Spray 40% Omethoate EC 1000×.

▍Applications

Medicinal use

Roots/leaves used for heat-clearing, detoxification, anti-inflammation, wound healing; treats appendicitis, boils, burns, and skin ailments.

Ecological use

Pioneer species for slope greening, soil stabilization, and afforestation in mountainous areas; adapts to poor soils.

Ornamental use

Suitable for garden hedges, background planting, and naturalistic landscaping; attractive panicles of small purple flowers.

Strobocalyx sylvatica

Image source:https://baike.baidu.com/

▍Morphological Features

Height: 2–5 m tall.
Stem: Cylindrical, climbing; with longitudinal ribs; densely covered with reddish-brown pubescence; branchlets slender, striated.
Leaves: Opposite, papery, ovate to oblong, 6–13 cm × 2–5.5 cm; apex acute/acuminate, base oblique-rounded; margin entire or slightly undulate-toothed; 7–8 pairs of lateral veins; both surfaces with reddish-brown pubescence along veins, glabrous elsewhere with sunken glands; petiole 5–10 mm, densely pubescent.

Flowers: Capitula numerous, 7–12 mm diameter, arranged in broad panicles at apex; peduncles 5–15 mm; involucre hemispheric, 3–5 mm, 4-layered bracts; florets tubular, pale reddish-purple.
Fruit: Achenes cylindrical, slightly compressed, ~3 mm; ribbed, pubescent; pappus 2-layered, white/brownish.
Root system: Taproot with well-developed lateral fibrous roots; moderately deep, adapted to climbing support and well-drained soil.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil type	Prefers loose, fertile, well-drained loam/sandy loam; pH 5.5–7.5; drought-tolerant; avoids waterlogging; naturally grows in forests, thickets, and shaded slopes.
Germination temperature	Optimal 20–28°C; light-favored; sowing depth 0.5–1 cm; emergence in 7–10 days.
Planting density	Row spacing 1.5–2 m, plant spacing 1–1.5 m; ~3000–4000 plants/ha (climbing shrub cultivation).

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Leaf spot: Improve ventilation + spray 70% Thiophanate-Methyl WP 800×
Root rot: Enhance drainage + drench 50% Carbendazim WP 800×.

Pests

Aphids: Spray 10% Imidacloprid WP 1500×
Scale insects: Spray 40% Omethoate EC 1000×
Leaf miners: Spray abamectin 1500×.

▍Applications

Ornamental use

Climbing habit for arbors, trellises, fences, and vertical greening; attractive purple panicles.

Medicinal use

Roots/leaves used for heat-clearing, detoxification, anti-inflammation; folk remedy for skin ailments and swelling.

Ecological use

Suitable for slope greening, soil stabilization, and understory planting in forest restoration; adapts to shaded conditions.

Strobocalyx bockiana

Image source:https://baike.baidu.com/

▍Morphological Features

Height: Shrub or small tree, 3–6 m tall.
Stem: Erect, cylindrical; densely covered with gray or pale yellow tomentum; branchlets with fine longitudinal ribs.
Leaves: Alternate, membranous or thin papery, oblong-lanceolate/elliptic, 12–22 cm × (8)–22 cm; apex acuminate, base cuneate; margin undulate or subentire; 10–13 pairs lateral veins; upper surface papillate, lower surface gray pubescent with silvery glands; petiole 1.2–2.5 cm, densely tomentose.

Flowers: Capitula 6–8 mm diameter, 8–12 florets each; arranged in loose compound corymbs at branch apices/axils; peduncles gray tomentose; involucre subglobose/hemispheric, 4–6 mm, 5-layered bracts; florets pale reddish-purple, tubular, glandular.
Fruit: Achenes subcylindrical, 3.5–4 mm, pale yellowish-brown, 3-ribbed on ventral side, subglabrous, glandular; pappus white, 2-layered (outer short, inner scabrous).
Root system: Taproot with well-developed lateral roots; moderately deep, adapted to well-drained mountain soils (consistent with genus).

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil type	Prefers loose, fertile, well-drained loam/sandy loam; pH 5.5–7.5; drought-tolerant; naturally grows in mountain forests, thickets, slopes (consistent with genus).
Germination temperature	Optimal 20–28°C; light-favored; sowing depth 0.5–1 cm; emergence in 7–10 days (consistent with genus).
Planting density	Row spacing 2–3 m, plant spacing 1.5–2 m; ~2000–3000 plants/ha (shrub/small tree cultivation, consistent with genus).

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Leaf spot: Improve ventilation + spray 70% Thiophanate-Methyl WP 800×
Root rot: Enhance drainage + drench 50% Carbendazim WP 800× (consistent with genus).

Pests

Aphids: Spray 10% Imidacloprid WP 1500×
Scale insects: Spray 40% Omethoate EC 1000×
Leaf miners: Spray abamectin 1500× (consistent with genus).

▍Applications

Medicinal use

Roots/leaves used for heat-clearing, detoxification, anti-inflammation; folk remedy for skin ailments, swelling, and trauma (consistent with genus).

Ecological use

Pioneer species for mountain slope greening, soil stabilization, and afforestation; adapts to poor mountain soils.

Ornamental use

Suitable for garden background planting, hedges, and naturalistic landscaping; attractive reddish-purple corymbose inflorescences.

Strobocalyx solanifolia

Image source:https://baike.baidu.com/

▍Morphological Features

Height: 8–12 m tall.
Stem: Cylindrical, branches spreading or sometimes climbing; densely covered with yellowish-brown/light yellow tomentum; branchlets stout, with fine longitudinal ribs.
Leaves: Alternate, ovate/ovate-oblong, 6–16 cm × 4–9 cm; apex obtuse/short-acuminate, base rounded/subcordate/truncate, slightly oblique; margin entire, undulate or sparsely obtuse-toothed; 7–9 pairs lateral veins; upper surface rough with sparse appressed hairs and gland dots, lower surface densely yellowish tomentose; petiole 1–2.5 cm, stout and densely tomentose.

Flowers: Capitula 5–6 mm diameter, arranged in leafy compound corymbs at branch apices; peduncles densely tomentose; involucre hemispheric, 4–5 mm, 4–5 layered bracts; florets tubular, pink/pale purple, fragrant, with glandular exterior.
Fruit: Achenes cylindrical, ~2–3 mm, 4–5 ribbed, glabrous; pappus pale yellow, 2-layered (outer very short, inner scabrous).
Root system: Taproot with well-developed lateral fibrous roots; moderately deep, adapted to well-drained mountain/forest soils (consistent with genus).

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil type	Prefers loose, fertile, well-drained loam/sandy loam; pH 5.5–7.5; drought-tolerant; naturally grows in mountain forests, thickets, slopes (consistent with genus).
Germination temperature	Optimal 20–28°C; light-favored; sowing depth 0.5–1 cm; emergence in 7–10 days (consistent with genus).
Planting density	Row spacing 2.5–3.5 m, plant spacing 2–2.5 m; ~1500–2500 plants/ha (large shrub/small tree cultivation).

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Leaf spot: Improve ventilation + spray 70% Thiophanate-Methyl WP 800×
Root rot: Enhance drainage + drench 50% Carbendazim WP 800× (consistent with genus).

Pests

Aphids: Spray 10% Imidacloprid WP 1500×
Scale insects: Spray 40% Omethoate EC 1000×
Leaf miners: Spray abamectin 1500× (consistent with genus).

▍Applications

Medicinal use

Roots/leaves used for heat-clearing, detoxification, anti-inflammation; folk remedy for skin ailments, swelling, and trauma (consistent with genus).

Ecological use

Pioneer species for mountain slope greening, soil stabilization, and afforestation; adapts to poor mountain soils.

Ornamental use

Suitable for garden background planting, hedges, and naturalistic landscaping; attractive fragrant pink/purple corymbose inflorescences.

Strobocalyx chunii

Image source:https://www.iplant.cn/

▍Morphological Features

Height
Stem: Cylindrical, climbing; branchlets with indistinct ribs, densely covered with pale yellowish-brown tomentum and glands .
Leaves: Alternate, papery, oblong/elliptic-oblong, 7–13 cm × 2.8–5.7 cm; apex short-acute, base rounded/attenuate; margin entire or slightly undulate; 3–6 pairs lateral veins; both surfaces with sessile glands, veins pubescent; petiole up to 2.5 cm, densely tomentose .

Flowers: Capitula 3–5 mm diameter, 2–3 florets each; arranged in broad panicles at stem/branch apices; peduncles very short (<2 mm), tomentose; involucre cylindrical, 4–5 mm, 4–6 layered bracts; florets purplish-violet, tubular, 5–6 mm long .
Fruit: Achenes oblong, ~2.5 mm, glabrous, glandular, indistinctly 5-ribbed; pappus white, 2-layered (outer short, inner scabrous) .
Root system: Taproot with well-developed lateral roots; moderately deep, adapted to well-drained forest/hedge soils (consistent with genus).

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil type	Prefers loose, fertile, well-drained loam/sandy loam; pH 5.5–7.5; drought-tolerant; naturally grows in mountain forests, thickets, slopes (consistent with genus).
Germination temperature	Optimal 20–28°C; light-favored; sowing depth 0.5–1 cm; emergence in 7–10 days (consistent with genus).
Planting density	Row spacing 2–3 m, plant spacing 1.5–2 m; ~2000–3000 plants/ha (climbing shrub cultivation).

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Leaf spot: Improve ventilation + spray 70% Thiophanate-Methyl WP 800×
Root rot: Enhance drainage + drench 50% Carbendazim WP 800× (consistent with genus).

Pests

Aphids: Spray 10% Imidacloprid WP 1500×
Scale insects: Spray 40% Omethoate EC 1000×
Leaf miners: Spray abamectin 1500× (consistent with genus).

▍Applications

Medicinal use

Roots/leaves used for heat-clearing, detoxification, anti-inflammation; folk remedy for skin ailments, swelling, and trauma; contains bioactive sesquiterpene lactones.

Ecological use

Climbing shrub for vertical greening, slope stabilization, and forest understory restoration; adapts to poor mountain soils.

Ornamental use

Suitable for arbors, trellises, and naturalistic landscaping; attractive purplish-violet panicles.

Crupina vulgaris

Image source:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Page

▍Morphological Features

Height: Typically 20-80 cm tall,about 40 cm
Stem: Single, erect, ridged; branched near apex (5–15 branches); covered with short stiff hairs/spines; white powdery coating, sparse arachnoid hairs.
Leaves: Alternate; basal rosette leaves oval/lanceolate, toothed/lobed; stem leaves deeply pinnate-lobed (finely dissected), rough with stiff hairs/spines; lower larger, upper smaller; up to 15 cm long.

Flowers: Capitula vase-shaped, 1–2 cm long; pink/purple/lavender; 1–5 per branch apex; surrounded by stiff bracts; blooms May–moisture depletion.
Fruit: Achenes cylindrical/tapered, 3–6 mm long; black-silvery/beige, hairy; apex with stiff barbed pappus (4–8 mm).
Root system: Fibrous root system; shallow, dense, adapted to disturbed soils.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil type	Adaptable to wide range; prefers well-drained loam/sandy loam; tolerates poor/alkaline soils; natural in rangeland, roadsides, waste areas.
Germination temperature	Optimal 10–25°C; winter annual; germinates autumn, overwinters as rosette.
Planting density	Not cultivated commercially; invasive; natural density 100–300 plants/m2 in dense stands.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Rare
leaf spot in humid conditions: improve ventilation
root rot in wet soil: enhance drainage.

Pests

Aphids, leaf miners: spray imidacloprid/abamectin
control priority: herbicides (2,4-D, dicamba, picloram) pre-flowering
mowing/grazing ineffective (stimulates branching/seeding).

▍Applications

Ecological

Invasive noxious weed; disrupts grasslands/pastures; no positive cultivation use; focus on eradication/control.

Other

No medicinal/ornamental/agricultural use; listed as federal noxious weed in US.

Smallanthus sonchifolius

Image source:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Page

▍Morphological Features

Height: 1.5–3 m tall .
Stem: Erect, cylindrical, hollow; base purplish-red, young branches green; densely pubescent; branching strong .
Leaves: Opposite; lower leaves broadly ovate/hastate, 25–30 cm × 15–20 cm, rough, wrinkled; upper leaves ovate-lanceolate; petiole 7–12 cm; both surfaces hairy .

Flowers: Capitula terminal clusters; yellow/orange; 5 involucral bracts; ray florets (female) yellow, 12–16 mm; disc florets (male) tubular; blooms Sep–Nov .
Fruit: Achenes, ellipsoid, 2–4 mm, dark brown; most ecotypes sterile, rarely viable .
Root system: Fibrous roots in 5–30 cm topsoil; enlarged spindle-shaped storage roots (edible); pinkish irregular tubercles for propagation .

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil type	Prefers loose, fertile, well-drained sandy loam; pH 5.5–7.0; avoids waterlogging; suitable for 1000–2300 m elevation.
Germination temperature	Tuber sprouting optimal 15–25°C; seed germination (rare) 20–28°C.
Planting density	Row spacing 100 cm, plant spacing 80–100 cm; ~10,000–12,500 plants/ha.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Root rot: Improve drainage + drench 50% carbendazim 800×
Leaf spot: 70% thiophanate-methyl 800×.

Pests

Aphids, leaf miners: 10% imidacloprid 1500×
Root-knot nematodes: Soil solarization + nematicides.

▍Applications

Edible

Storage roots eaten raw/cooked; crisp, sweet, high in fructooligosaccharides; low sugar, high fiber.

Medicinal

Regulates blood sugar/lipids; aids digestion; leaves used for tea with antioxidant effects.

Economic

Fresh market, processing (juice, syrup, powder); low-input, high-value cash crop.

Ecological

Adaptable to mountain slopes; used for soil conservation and intercropping.

Cyathocline purpurea

Image source:https://baike.baidu.com/

▍Morphological Features

Height: Typically 10-15 cm ,up to 15 cm tall.
Stem: Erect, branched at base; reddish?purple or tinged red; covered with viscid long pubescence; grooved.
Leaves: Sessile, base auriculate?clasping; middle leaves 2.5–12 cm long, ovate/obovate, bipinnately divided; upper/lower leaves smaller; abaxially pubescent along rachis/veins, adaxially nearly glabrous.

Flowers: Capitula hemispherical, ~2 mm diam.; involucral bracts 2?seriate, purple?tipped; female florets numerous, linear, reddish?purple; central florets bisexual; peduncles with white viscid hairs.
Fruit: Achenes oblong, smooth; pappus absent.
Root system: Fibrous, shallow; adapted to moist/wet habitats; no enlarged storage roots.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil type	Prefers moist, fertile loam/clay loam; tolerates wet soils; common in grasslands, roadsides, rice fields, stream banks; pH neutral to slightly acidic.
Germination temperature	Optimal 18–28°C; germinates in warm wet seasons; annual, completes life cycle quickly.
Planting density	Wild only; no commercial cultivation; natural density 50–200 plants/m2 in moist habitats.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Root rot in waterlogged soil: improve drainage
leaf spot in high humidity: thin plants for ventilation.

Pests

Aphids, leaf miners: spray with neem oil or imidacloprid
few major pests in wild populations.

▍Applications

Medicinal

Whole plant aromatic; used in folk medicine for anti?inflammatory, hemostatic, diuretic, insecticidal effects; contains essential oils (cyathoclol, thymyl esters) .

Ecological

Pioneer in wet/disturbed areas; stabilizes moist soils; indicator of high soil moisture.

Agricultural

Occurs as weed in rice fields; no cultivation use; controlled via drainage/weeding.

Eurybia sibirica

Image source:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Page

▍Morphological Features

Height: Typically 7–35 cm tall.
Stem: Decumbent?ascending from curved base; slender, clumped; densely pubescent; unbranched or upper branched; densely leafy.
Leaves: Basal leaves small, scale?like; lower leaves oblong?spatulate, with broad winged petiole, withering at anthesis; middle leaves oblong?lanceolate, 5–8 cm × 1–1.7 cm, base subcordate/rounded, semi?amplexicaul, apex acute, serrate; upper leaves linear?oblong; thin papery, adaxially glabrescent, abaxially sparsely pubescent (denser on veins).

Flowers: Capitula 2–3.5 cm diam., solitary or 2–5 in dense corymbs; peduncles 2–7 mm; involucre hemispheric, 10–13 mm diam.; bracts 3?seriate, purple?tipped, pubescent; ray florets purple; disc florets tubular; blooms July–September.
Fruit: Achenes obovate?oblong, 2.5–3 mm, purplish?brown, puberulent; pappus dirty white/reddish, 6 mm long .
Root system: Rhizomatous, prostrate rhizomes; fibrous lateral roots; clump?forming; shallow to medium depth.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil type	Prefers well?drained loam/sandy loam, neutral to slightly alkaline; tolerates cold, dry, and rocky soils; common in tundra, meadows, rocky slopes, forest edges.
Germination temperature	Seed germination optimal 15–22°C; cold stratification (2–4°C for 4–6 weeks) improves rate; rhizome sprouting 10–18°C.
Planting density	Ornamental: 20–30 cm spacing; wild/naturalized: 5–10 plants/m2; rhizome division for propagation.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Root rot (waterlogging): improve drainage
powdery mildew: thin for ventilation, spray sulfur fungicides .

Pests

Aphids, leaf miners: neem oil or imidacloprid
slug/snail damage in moist areas: bait or handpick.

▍Applications

Ornamental

Cold?hardy perennial; purple autumn flowers; used in rock gardens, borders, alpine plantings; long cut?flower vase life .

Ecological

Pioneer in cold/tundra regions; stabilizes slopes; supports pollinators (bees, butterflies); wildlife forage.

Medicinal

Folk use for respiratory ailments; antimicrobial/anti?inflammatory properties; roots used in traditional Siberian medicine.

Conservation

Native to Arctic/Siberian regions; indicator of cold grassland ecosystems.

Allardia tridactylites

Image source:https://baike.baidu.com/

▍Morphological Features

Height: Typically 2-6 cm tall.
Stem: Numerous stems, forming dense basal rosettes; slender, unbranched or sparsely branched; glabrous.
Leaves: Spatulate, 1–1.5 cm long; 3(5)-lobed (deep/shallow), base cuneate; lobes oblong, entire or 2–3-toothed; glabrous, with gland dots; in dense rosettes.

Flowers: Capitula solitary at stem apex, 2.5–3.5 cm diam.; involucre hemispheric, 1.5–2 cm diam., glabrous; bracts 3–4-seriate, dark brown scarious margins; ray florets pink/purple-red, neutral; disc florets yellow, bisexual, glandular; blooms in alpine summer.
Fruit: Achenes ~2.5 mm, slightly curved, 5-ribbed, glabrous, yellow-glandular; pappus brownish; ray achenes often sterile, pappus absent/reduced.
Root system: Fibrous, shallow; rhizomatous (short, creeping); adapted to rocky/alpine soils; anchoring in crevices.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil type	Prefers well-drained sandy loam/rocky soil, neutral to slightly alkaline; tolerates cold, arid, high-altitude (4820–6000 m); grows in rock crevices, glacier margins, stony slopes.
Germination temperature	Optimal 10–18°C; requires cold stratification (0–4°C for 6–8 weeks); slow germination in alpine conditions.
Planting density	Wild only; no commercial cultivation; natural density 10–30 plants/m2 in suitable habitats.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Root rot in poorly drained soil: improve drainage
powdery mildew in humid alpine: thin for air flow.

Pests

Aphids, alpine weevils: neem oil or pyrethrins
few major pests in harsh high-altitude environments.

▍Applications

Medicinal

Traditional use in Himalayan/Ladakh regions; essential oil with antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, cytotoxic properties; used for respiratory and digestive ailments.

Ecological

Pioneer in high-altitude rocky areas; stabilizes fragile alpine soils; supports pollinators in extreme cold; indicator of glacial/rocky ecosystems.

Ornamental

Rare alpine rock garden plant; compact size, colorful flowers; suitable for cold-climate rockeries.

Allardia huegelii

Image source:https://baike.baidu.com/

▍Morphological Features

Height: Typically 10-15 cm tall.
Stem: Numerous, short, clustered; densely covered with gray-white cottony hairs; unbranched; forms tight basal rosettes .
Leaves: Oblong-cuneate, 8–12 mm × 3–5 mm; 3-deeply lobed at apex; lobes oblong, entire or 2-lobed; both surfaces densely gray-white tomentose; in dense rosettes .

Flowers: Capitula solitary at stem apex, ~2 cm diam.; sessile or short-pedunculate; involucre hemispheric, ~1.5 cm diam.; bracts 3-seriate, oblong-lanceolate, black scarious fringed margins, cottony-backed; ray florets neutral, pink, ~7 mm long; disc florets bisexual, yellow, 3.5 mm long; blooms in alpine summer .
Fruit: Achenes ~1.5 mm, glandular; pappus many, ~3 mm, pale yellow, greenish at apex; ray achenes sterile, pappus absent/reduced .
Root system: Rhizomatous; creeping, woody, branched rhizomes; fibrous adventitious roots; shallow, anchoring in rock crevices .

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil type	Prefers well-drained rocky/sandy loam, neutral to alkaline; adapted to 5800 m high altitude; grows in rock crevices,山口平台石下; intolerant of waterlogging.
Germination temperature	No commercial data; alpine-adapted; likely 8–16°C; requires long cold stratification (0–4°C for 8–10 weeks).
Planting density	Not cultivated commercially; wild density 15–30 plants/m2 in suitable habitats.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Root rot in wet conditions: ensure sharp drainage
powdery mildew in humid alpine: improve air circulation.

Pests

Few major pests in extreme high-altitude
occasional aphids: neem oil
minimal herbivory.

▍Applications

Medicinal

Traditional Himalayan/Tibetan use; aromatic oils with antimicrobial/anti-inflammatory properties; used for respiratory and digestive issues.

Ecological

Pioneer species in high-altitude rocky zones; stabilizes fragile alpine soils; supports pollinators in extreme cold; indicator of glacial/rocky ecosystems.

Ornamental

Rare alpine rock garden subject; tiny size, pink flowers; suitable for cold-climate alpine collections.

Allardia stoliczkae

Image source:https://baike.baidu.com/

▍Morphological Features

Height: About 15 cm tall.
Stem: Erect, slender, glabrous (hairless); with creeping, rooting rhizomes; unbranched or sparsely branched.
Leaves: 1–2 pinnatisect (fully divided), glabrous; segments linear/oblong; arranged along stem, not in dense rosettes.

Flowers: Capitula solitary, pedunculate (long-stalked); involucre hemispheric, glabrous, with black scarious margins; ray florets pink, ~1.8 cm long; disc florets yellow, bisexual; blooms in alpine summer.
Fruit: Achenes ~2–3 mm, slightly curved, 5-ribbed; upper half sparsely pubescent or glabrous, glandular; pappus pale yellow, ~4–6 mm; ray achenes sterile, pappus absent/reduced.
Root system: Creeping rhizomatous (rooting at nodes); fibrous adventitious roots; shallow, anchoring in gravel/rocky soils.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil type	Prefers well-drained gravelly/sandy loam, neutral to alkaline; adapted to 3200–5400 m high altitude; grows in rocky slopes, gravel beds, near glaciers; intolerant of waterlogging.
Germination temperature	No commercial data; alpine-adapted; likely 8–16°C; requires cold stratification (0–4°C for 6–8 weeks).
Planting density	Not cultivated commercially; wild density 10–25 plants/m2 in suitable habitats.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Root rot in wet conditions: ensure sharp drainage
powdery mildew in humid alpine: improve air circulation.

Pests

Few major pests in extreme high-altitude
occasional aphids: neem oil
minimal herbivory.

▍Applications

Medicinal

Traditional Himalayan/Tibetan use; aerial parts used for anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and respiratory ailments; essential oil with antimicrobial activity.

Ecological

Pioneer species in high-altitude rocky/gravel zones; stabilizes fragile alpine soils; supports pollinators in cold environments; indicator of glacial/rocky ecosystems.

Ornamental

Rare alpine rock garden plant; delicate foliage, pink flowers; suitable for cold-climate alpine collections.

Allardia vestita

Image source:https://www.iplant.cn/

▍Morphological Features

Height: Usually 4–6 cm tall;
Stem: Numerous, short, erect; densely cottony; forms tight basal rosettes; unbranched.
Leaves: Cuneate, 10–15 mm × 4–5 mm; apex 3–5 shallowly lobed (lobes 1–2.5 mm, rounded); both surfaces densely pale yellow/gray-white tomentose; in dense rosettes.

Flowers: Capitula solitary at stem apex, ~2 cm diam.; short-pedunculate; involucre hemispheric, ~1.5 cm diam.; bracts 4–5-seriate, ovate-oblong, 4–6 mm, with broad dark brown lacerate scarious margins, cottony-backed; ray florets neutral, pink, ~11 mm long; disc florets bisexual, yellow; blooms August–September.
Fruit: Achenes ~2 mm, glandular; pappus pale yellow, ~3–4 mm; ray achenes sterile, pappus absent/reduced.
Root system: Creeping, woody, branching rhizomes (rooting at nodes); fibrous adventitious roots; shallow, anchoring in rock/gravel.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil type	Prefers well-drained rocky/sandy/gravelly loam, neutral to alkaline; adapted to 4500–5500 m high altitude; grows in alpine rock crevices, gravel slopes; intolerant of waterlogging.
Germination temperature	No commercial data; alpine-adapted; likely 8–16°C; requires cold stratification (0–4°C for 8–10 weeks).
Planting density	Not cultivated commercially; wild density 15–30 plants/m2 in suitable habitats.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Root rot in wet conditions: ensure sharp drainage
powdery mildew in humid alpine: improve air circulation.

Pests

Few major pests in extreme high-altitude
occasional aphids: neem oil
minimal herbivory.

▍Applications

Medicinal

Traditional Himalayan/Tibetan use; aromatic aerial parts for anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and respiratory ailments; essential oil with antimicrobial activity.

Ecological

Pioneer species in high-altitude rocky/gravel zones; stabilizes fragile alpine soils; supports pollinators in cold environments; indicator of glacial/rocky ecosystems.

Ornamental

Rare alpine rock garden subject; tiny size, pink flowers; suitable for cold-climate alpine collections.

Allardia lasiocarpa

Image source:https://baike.baidu.com/

▍Morphological Features

Height: 10–15 cm tall (stem length) .
Stem: Prostrate at base, upper part ascending; much branched; sparsely cottony-haired .
Leaves: Spathulate (匙形), 1.5–2 cm × 6–7 mm; apex 5–7 deeply/ shallowly lobed (lobes linear-oblong, obtuse); both surfaces sparsely cottony .

Flowers: Capitula solitary at stem apex, up to 3 cm diam., sessile (无梗); involucre 3–4-seriate, triangular-lanceolate to oblong, 6–7 mm, with purple-brown scarious margins, sparsely cottony abaxially; ray florets neutral, deep pink, 15 mm total (ligule 13 mm); disc florets bisexual, yellow; blooms July .
Fruit: Achenes cylindrical, compressed, ~2.5 mm, 6-ribbed; densely white long-pubescent + yellow glandular; pappus pale yellowish-brown, membranous, flat, longer than corolla; ray achenes sterile, pappus absent .
Root system: Creeping rhizomatous (underground, rooting at nodes); fibrous adventitious roots; shallow, anchoring in gravel/rocky soils.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil type	Prefers well-drained stony/gravelly loam, neutral to alkaline; adapted to 4700–5200 m high altitude; grows in riverside stony meadows & scree slopes; intolerant of waterlogging.
Germination temperature	No commercial data; alpine-adapted; likely 8–16°C; requires cold stratification (0–4°C for 8–10 weeks).
Planting density	Not cultivated commercially; wild density 10–20 plants/m2 in suitable habitats.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Root rot in wet conditions: ensure sharp drainage
powdery mildew in humid alpine: improve air circulation.

Pests

Few major pests in extreme high-altitude
occasional aphids: neem oil
minimal herbivory.

▍Applications

Medicinal

Traditional Tibetan/Himalayan use; aerial parts for anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and respiratory support; essential oil with antimicrobial activity.

Ecological

Pioneer species in high-altitude stony/riverside zones; stabilizes fragile alpine soils; supports pollinators in cold environments; indicator of glacial/rocky river ecosystems.

Ornamental

Rare alpine rock garden plant; deep pink flowers, low-growing habit; suitable for cold-climate alpine collections.

Leucanthemum vulgare

Image source:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Page

▍Morphological Features

Height: 30–90 cm tall.
Stem: Erect, solitary or few; glabrous or sparsely hairy; unbranched or branched in upper half; green to reddish-brown.
Leaves: Basal leaves spoon-shaped/obovate, 5–10 cm long, long-petioled, coarsely toothed/lobed; stem leaves alternate, sessile upward, lanceolate, smaller, sharply serrated; dark green, smooth or sparsely hairy.

Flowers: Capitula solitary at stem apex, 3–5 cm diam. ; involucre hemispheric, bracts multi-seriate, green with scarious margins; ray florets white, 13–30+, 1–2 cm long; disc florets yellow, bisexual; blooms June–August.
Fruit: Achenes cylindrical, ~2–3 mm, smooth, without pappus; ray achenes often sterile .
Root system: Short rhizomatous + fibrous root system; creeping rhizomes form clumps; shallow, spreading .

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil type	Tolerates sandy/loamy/clay soils; prefers moist but well-drained, neutral to alkaline pH; full sun to light shade; avoids waterlogging.
Germination temperature	15–20°C; seeds need light for germination; cold stratification (0–4°C, 2–4 weeks) improves rate .
Planting density	Garden use 20–30 cm apart; meadow/groundcover 10–15 plants/m2 .

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Powdery mildew (humid): improve air circulation
leaf spot: avoid overhead watering
root rot: ensure drainage .

Pests

Aphids, leaf miners: insecticidal soap/neem oil
slugs/snails: bait/barriers .

▍Applications

Ornamental

Popular garden/meadow/rock garden plant; cut flower; mass planting for white blooms.

Ecological

Pollinator support (bees/butterflies); meadow restoration; naturalized in roadsides/grasslands.

Edible

Young leaves raw in salads, cooked as greens; mild flavor.

Medicinal

Traditional use for anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, wound care; aerial parts used in infusions.

Leucanthemum maximum

Image source:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Page

▍Morphological Features

Height: 30–110 cm (commonly 60–90 cm) .
Stem: Erect, solitary or few-branched; glabrous (smooth); green to dark green; unbranched or sparsely branched in upper part .
Leaves: Basal leaves long-spathulate/obovate, up to 30 cm, long-petioled, coarsely serrated; stem leaves alternate, sessile, lanceolate to linear, smaller upward; dark green, smooth .

Flowers: Capitula solitary at apex, 5–10 cm diam.; involucre bracts multi-seriate, green with brownish scarious margins; ray florets white, numerous, 2–3 cm long; disc florets bright yellow, bisexual; blooms June–August .
Fruit: Achenes cylindrical, ~2–3 mm, smooth, without pappus; ray achenes often sterile .
Root system: Short rhizomatous + fibrous root system; creeping rhizomes form dense clumps; shallow, spreading.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil type	Tolerates sandy/loamy/clay soils; prefers moist but well-drained, neutral to alkaline pH; full sun; avoids waterlogging .
Germination temperature	15–20°C; seeds need light; cold stratification (0–4°C, 2–4 weeks) improves germination .
Planting density	Garden/flower border 30–40 cm apart; mass planting 8–12 plants/m2.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Powdery mildew (humid): improve air circulation
leaf spot: avoid overhead watering
root rot: ensure drainage .

Pests

Aphids, leaf miners: insecticidal soap/neem oil
slugs/snails: bait/copper barriers .

▍Applications

Ornamental

Popular garden/flower border/rock garden plant; excellent cut flower; mass planting for white summer blooms.

Ecological

Pollinator magnet (bees/butterflies); meadow restoration; naturalized in grasslands/roadsides.

Medicinal

Traditional use for anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and wound care; aerial parts used in infusions .

Cynara scolymus

Image source:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Page

▍Morphological Features

Height: 1.2–2 m (commonly 1.5–2 m) .
Stem: Erect, stout, ribbed, upper branched; sparsely to densely arachnoid-hairy; green to silvery-green .
Leaves: Basal leaves large, rosette-forming, oblong/ broadly lanceolate, up to 1 m long × 50 cm wide, bipinnately divided; long-petioled; upper leaves smaller, sessile; upper surface green, glabrous; lower surface gray-white, densely to sparsely tomentose .

Flowers: Large capitula at branch apices, 8–15 cm diam.; involucre bracts multiseriate, leathery, glabrous; florets purple-red, tubular; blooms July.
Fruit: Achenes oblong, 4-angled, apex truncate; pappus white, feathery, ~3.6 cm, united at base, deciduous.
Root system: Taprooted + fibrous lateral roots; deep, robust, well-developed.

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil type	Prefers deep, fertile, well-drained loam/sandy loam; neutral to alkaline pH; tolerates clay if drained; avoids waterlogging.
Germination temperature	18–22°C (optimum ~20°C); seeds may benefit from light; cold stratification not required.
Planting density	Field: 80–100 cm between rows, 60–80 cm between plants; garden: 1 m apart.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Root rot (overwatering): improve drainage
powdery mildew: air circulation
leaf spot: avoid wet foliage.

Pests

Aphids, thrips: insecticidal soap/neem
slugs/snails: bait/barriers
caterpillars: manual removal or Bt.

▍Applications

Edible

Edible immature flower buds (bracts + receptacle); cooked/steamed/fried; "vegetable king" in Europe.

Medicinal

Rich in cynarin, flavonoids; used for liver protection, cholesterol lowering, digestion, antioxidant.

Ornamental

Architectural foliage + purple flowers; used in borders, cottage gardens, large landscapes.

Industrial

Byproducts used for extracts, teas, dietary supplements.

Cynara cardunculus

Image source:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Page

▍Morphological Features

Height: 0.9–2.5 m (commonly 1.5–2 m).
Stem: Erect, stout, ribbed, upper branched; gray-white, densely arachnoid-tomentose; silvery-green to gray-green.
Leaves: Basal rosette large, oblong/ broadly lanceolate, up to 1 m long × 50 cm wide, bipinnately divided; long-petioled; upper leaves smaller, sessile; upper surface gray-green, sparsely hairy; lower surface white-gray, densely tomentose; lobes tipped with yellow spines (15–35 mm).

Flowers: Large globose capitula at branch apices, 8–12 cm diam.; involucre bracts leathery, spiny; florets purple-red, tubular; blooms July.
Fruit: Achenes oblong, 6–8 mm, 4-angled; pappus white, feathery, ~4 cm, united at base, deciduous.
Root system: Thick fleshy taproot + fibrous lateral roots; deep, robust, well-developed .

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil type	Prefers deep, fertile, well-drained loam/sandy loam/chalk; neutral to alkaline pH; full sun; avoids waterlogging.
Germination temperature	18–22°C (optimum ~20°C); light beneficial; no cold stratification needed.
Planting density	Field: 100–120 cm between rows, 90–120 cm between plants; garden: 90–120 cm apart.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Root rot: improve drainage
powdery mildew: air circulation
leaf spot: avoid wet foliage.

Pests

Aphids, thrips: insecticidal soap/neem
slugs/snails: bait/barriers
caterpillars: manual removal or Bt.

▍Applications

Edible

Young petioles & inner leaves (blanched/boiled/steamed); used in salads, soups, stews; similar to artichoke .

Medicinal

Rich in cynarin, flavonoids; liver protection, cholesterol lowering, digestive aid, antioxidant.

Ornamental

Architectural silvery foliage + purple flowers; borders, cottage gardens, large landscapes.

Industrial

Biomass for biofuel; byproducts for extracts, teas, supplements .

Xanthium strumarium

Image source:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Page

▍Morphological Features

Height: 20–120 cm (commonly 30–80 cm) .
Stem: Erect, stout, lower cylindrical (4–10 mm diam.), upper grooved; sparsely branched; covered with gray-white strigose hairs.
Leaves: Alternate, triangular-ovate/cordate, 4–9 cm long × 5–10 cm wide; irregular coarse teeth or 3–5 obscure lobes; base subcordate/truncate; 3 basal veins; upper surface green, lower pale; petiole 3–11 cm.

Flowers: Monoecious; male capitula spherical (4–6 mm diam.) at upper stem, yellow-green, corolla campanulate; female capitula ellipsoid at lower stem, involucre fused into a spiny bur; blooms July–August .
Fruit: Bur (mature involucre) ovoid/ellipsoid, hard, green/yellowish, covered with hooked spines, apex with 2 straight/curved beaks; 2 achenes inside, obovoid; fruit period September–October.
Root system: Taproot fusiform (spindle-shaped), branched or unbranched; shallow to medium depth .

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil type	Adaptable; prefers loose, fertile, well-drained sandy loam; tolerates poor, dry soils; avoids waterlogging.
Germination temperature	15–25°C (optimum ~20°C); seeds have dormancy; may need scarification.
Planting density	Wild/volunteer; cultivated: 30–40 cm between rows, 20–30 cm between plants.

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Root rot (overwatering): improve drainage
leaf spot: avoid wet foliage
powdery mildew: enhance air circulation.

Pests

Aphids, thrips: insecticidal soap/neem
caterpillars: manual removal/Bt
flea beetles: row covers.

▍Applications

Medicinal

Whole plant/fruits (cang'erzi) used in TCM; dispel wind, dampness, relieve nasal congestion, treat rheumatism; toxic, use under professional guidance.

Industrial

Seeds yield oil for paints, inks, soaps; bur used for natural crafts.

Ecological

Pioneer species for soil stabilization; wildlife food (birds eat seeds); but invasive in croplands.

Other

Natural insecticide; bur used for seed dispersal research.

Xanthium spinosum

Image source:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Page

▍Morphological Features

Height: 30–120 cm (commonly 30–100 cm).
Stem: Erect, cylindrical, ribbed; upper branched densely; nodes with yellow 3-pronged spines (1–3 cm); covered with short strigose hairs.
Leaves: Alternate, narrow ovate-lanceolate/broad lanceolate, 3–8 cm × 0.6–3 cm; 3–6 shallow lobes or entire, middle lobe longest; base cuneate; upper surface green-glossy, lower gray-white densely hairy; petiole 5–15 mm, slender.

Flowers: Monoecious; male capitula spherical, terminal; female capitula ovoid, axillary; involucre spiny; blooms July–October .
Fruit: Bur (mature involucre) obovoid-ellipsoid, 7–13 mm; yellow-brown, with fine hooked spines, apex with 2 slender beaks; 2 achenes inside; fruit period September–October .
Root system: Taproot fusiform, well-branched; shallow to medium depth .

▍Cultivation Methods

Parameter	Specifications
Soil type	Adaptable; prefers loose, well-drained sandy loam/loam; tolerates poor, dry soils; avoids waterlogging .
Germination temperature	15–25°C (optimum ~20°C); seeds have dormancy; may need scarification.
Planting density	Wild/invasive; cultivated control: 30–40 cm row spacing, 20–30 cm plant spacing (for eradication trials).

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Root rot: improve drainage
leaf spot: avoid wet foliage
powdery mildew: enhance air circulation.

Pests

Aphids, thrips: insecticidal soap/neem
flea beetles: row covers
caterpillars: manual removal/Bt.
Invasive control: Mechanical tillage/hand-pulling (before seeding)
herbicides (glyphosate)
crop rotation
prevent seed spread via animals/equipment.

▍Applications

Medicinal

Traditional use for fever, rheumatism, nasal issues; highly toxic (cynarin-like toxins), strictly for professional use only.

Industrial

Leaves yield yellow dye; seeds contain oil for industrial uses (non-edible).

Ecological

Invasive weed; competes with crops (wheat, soybean, vegetables); toxic to livestock; listed as harmful invasive species.

Other

Used in botanical research on seed dispersal and invasive ecology.

Gene Search

Agroecology

Plant Ecology

Artemisia annua

▍Morphological Features

▍Cultivation Methods

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Pests

▍Applications

Medical Use

Essential Oil

Ecological

Artemisia argyi

▍Morphological Features

▍Cultivation Methods

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Pests

▍Applications

Traditional Therapy

Aromatherapy

Cultural

Ambrosia artemisiifolia

▍Morphological Features

▍Cultivation Methods

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Pests

▍Applications

Allergenic Pollen

Phytoremediation

Research

Ambrosia trifida

▍Morphological Features

▍Cultivation Methods

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Pests

▍Applications

Allergenic Pollen

Phytoremediation

Research

Arctium lappa

▍Morphological Features

▍Cultivation Methods

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Pests

▍Applications

Medicinal Use

Culinary Use

Other Uses

Arctium minus

▍Morphological Features

▍Cultivation Methods

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Pests

▍Applications

Medicinal Use

Culinary Use

Other Uses

Artemisia tridentata

▍Morphological Features

▍Cultivation Methods

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Pests

▍Applications

Medicinal Use

Ecosystem Services

Cultural Significance

Bidens alba

▍Morphological Features

▍Cultivation Methods

▍Pest Management

Diseases

Pests

▍Applications