Family: Asteraceae
Author: L.
Bibliography: Sp. Pl.: 837 (1753)
Year: 1753
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Eupatorium
Vegetable: False
Observations: NC. & E. U.S.A.
Description
Upland boneset, known scientifically as Eupatorium sessilifolium, is a remarkable perennial plant native to the eastern and central regions of the United States. Classified under the esteemed Asteraceae family, this plant showcases a distinctive charm and ecological importance.
This botanical gem thrives predominantly in open woodlands and prairies, where it can often be observed gracing the landscape with its presence. The plant features multitudinous slender stems, each adorned with pairs of sessile leaves, which are unique in that they are directly attached to the stems without any petiole. These elongated leaves, with their toothed margins and pointed tips, provide a lush backdrop for the clusters of small, white, disc-like flowers that bloom from late summer to early fall.
Upland boneset is renowned for its robust flowering, which is not only a visual delight but also plays a crucial role in supporting the local ecosystem. The nectar-rich flowers attract an array of pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, contributing to biodiversity and aiding in the pollination of various other plants within its habitat.
Historically, its ethnobotanical uses have been well documented, as early American settlers and indigenous populations utilized different parts of the plant for medicinal purposes. However, modern interest in this plant leans more towards its ecological benefits and ornamental potential in native plant gardens.
First described in the monumental 1753 publication Species Plantarum by the renowned botanist Carl Linnaeus, Eupatorium sessilifolium has held a steadfast place in botanical literature and continues to be a subject of admiration and study. Its resilience and adaptability make it a significant species for conservation efforts, particularly in areas where native flora is under threat from invasive species and habitat loss.
In summary, the upland boneset stands as a testament to the beauty and utility of native plants in the United States. Its presence enriches both natural and cultivated landscapes, offering aesthetic pleasure and ecological value.
Common Names
Deu: blattstielloser wasserdost
Eng: upland boneset
Swe: indianflockel
En: Upland boneset
De: Blattstielloser Wasserdost
Sv: Indianflockel
Synonyms
- Uncasia sessilifolia ((L.) Greene)
Distribution
- Alabama (native)
- Arkansas (native)
- Connecticut (native)
- Delaware (native)
- District of Columbia (native)
- Georgia (native)
- Illinois (native)
- Indiana (native)
- Iowa (native)
- Kansas (native)
- Kentucky (native)
- Maryland (native)
- Masachusettes (native)
- Michigan (native)
- Minnesota (native)
- Mississippi (native)
- Missouri (native)
- New Hampshire (native)
- New Jersey (native)
- New York (native)
- North Carolina (native)
- Ohio (native)
- Pennsylvania (native)
- Rhode I. (native)
- South Carolina (native)
- Tennessee (native)
- Vermont (native)
- Virginia (native)
- West Virginia (native)
- Wisconsin (native)
Additional Images
Flower
Taken Jul 25, 2020 by Charles Adams-Mallery (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 31, 2022 by Jennifer Summey (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 22, 2022 by martin quiroz (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Cooper, G.A. (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Cooper, G.A. (cc-by-nc-sa)
Habit
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Haug, E. (cc-by-nc-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5403176)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:100946-2)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Eupatorium sessilifolium L.)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Forb/herb