Description:
Also known as Bitter Weed, Feverfew, False Ragweed, Whitetop.

Native to the Caribbean, Parthenium Weed is an erect annual to about 1.5m tall.

Distinguished by grey-green doubly lobed leaves at rosette stage (seedlings), and lobed leaves covered in soft fine hair when mature. Veins are recessed and prominent with stems grooved or ridged.

Most of the year in the north, 5 small white petals surrounding a diamond shaped panicle. Flowers are a composite of male and female florets forming 5 distinct lobes.

2 - 3 mm long black seed, white warty on face with 0.5mm membraneous white scales.

Dispersal:
Seed is spread by wind and water. It is easily spread by machinery, livestock, produce and vehicles.

Impact on Bushland:
Parthenium weed is invasive and germination can occur at almost any time of the year.

Control:
Threatens animal and human health. Please contact your local control authority for advice on control.

Similar Species:

Suggested Alternatives:

References: