Camphor Weed
Telegraph Plant
Heterotheca subaxillaris
Photographed near Camp Creek, Maricopa Co., Arizona. August 2008.
ANNUAL: Robust annual growing usually after summer rains, but may
germinate and begin vegetative growth after late spring rains. Plants can reach
almost two meters in height.
Several, widely spreading side branches, suggest the alternate name for this
plant, Telegraph Plant.
LEAVES: Leaves are broadly elliptic with short petioles. Leaf bases may
clasp the stem. Ashy green leaves have a gritty texture and emit strong
camphor-like aroma when crushed.
FLOWERS: Bright yellow disc and ray florets. The composite heads include
25 or so rays and about 60 disc florets - but this number can vary tremendously.
RANGE: Frequent throughout the Sonoran Desert in Arizona and Mexico at
roadsides, along washes, and in the vicinity of agricultural fields. Ranges
across the southern tier of the United States and hence into tropical America.
FRUIT: Seeds are angled or flattened and do not have a pappus at top.
UNARMED. Thornless.
Asteraceae -- Sunflower Family
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As the seed heads mature Lesser Goldfinches and House Finches begin removing and eating the seeds. The flowers are attractive to nectar-feeding insects.
