American Burnweed
Scientific Name: Erechtites hieraciifolius
Plant Family: Asteraceae
Native Region: North, Central, and South America; naturalized in parts of Europe and Asia.
Brief Description
An annual weed with alternate, toothed leaves. This sapling shows significant insect damage (shot holes). As it grows, it produces a tall, unbranched stem ending in clusters of greenish flower heads that do not fully open.
Care Instructions
Generally considered a weed, it requires little to no care. It thrives in disturbed soils, recently burned areas, and garden edges. It prefers moist soil and full to partial sun.
Medicinal Value
We do not currently provide medicinal value for plant identifications.
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade (4-8 hours of light per day).
Watering
Prefers consistently moist soil but can tolerate some drought once established. It thrives in humid conditions.
Soil
Well-draining, nutrient-rich soil is preferred, but it is highly adaptable to various soil types (clay, loam, sand) with a pH range of 5.0 to 7.5.
Hardiness Zone
Common in USDA zones 4 through 11 as a summer annual.
Growth Habit
Annual herb with an erect growth habit, typically reaching 3 to 10 feet in height. Fast-growing and often colonizes disturbed ground.
Bloom Season
Summer to early Fall; produces small, cylindrical greenish-white disk flowers that develop into white, fluffy seed heads (pappus).
Toxicity
Generally considered non-toxic to humans and common pets, though not typically consumed as food due to a bitter taste and potential to accumulate nitrates.
Propagation
Primarily by wind-dispersed seeds. Seeds germinate best when they are on the surface of disturbed or burned soil.
Common Pests & Issues
Prone to heavy leaf damage from insects (as seen in the photo) including beetles and caterpillars, and occasionally powdery milkdew.
Similar Species
Can be confused with Pilewort (Erechtites spp.) or early stages of some Lettuces (Lactuca spp.). It is distinguished by its distinct unpleasant smell when crushed and the unique 'closed' appearance of its flowers.
Interesting Facts
The species name 'hieraciifolius' means 'leaves like Hawkweed'. It is one of the first plants to emerge after a forest fire, earning it the name 'Burnweed'.
Created At: 2026-06-08T00:30:58.086712