Family: Asteraceae
Author: Kunth
Bibliography: Nov. Gen. Sp. 4(17): 204 (1818)
Year: 1818
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Parthenium
Vegetable: False
Observations: SW. & SC. U.S.A. to Mexico
Description
Mariola, scientifically known as Parthenium incanum, is a striking perennial shrub belonging to the Asteraceae family. Described by the renowned botanist Kunth in 1818, this resilient plant has etched its presence predominantly in the southwestern and south-central regions of the United States, extending its range into Mexico.
Renowned for its hardy nature, Mariola is well-suited to the arid environments characteristic of its native habitats. The plant flourishes in sunny locales, often gracing landscapes with its silvery-grey foliage that provides a captivating contrast against the desert backdrop. Its leaves are finely divided and covered with a soft, woolly texture, endowing the plant with both visual intrigue and adaptability to drought conditions.
During its blooming period, Mariola showcases an array of small, delicate white flowers. These blossoms, although modest in size, collectively create a striking display that attracts a variety of pollinators. The flowers are typically arranged in loose clusters, ensuring that they capture the attention of bees, butterflies, and other nectar-seeking insects that play a critical role in the plant’s reproduction.
Beyond its ornamental value, Mariola holds significance in traditional medicine among indigenous communities. Various parts of the plant have been utilized to address ailments ranging from skin irritations to respiratory issues, highlighting its versatility and importance in folk remedies.
As a member of the Asteraceae family, Mariola shares familial traits with other well-known species such as sunflowers and daisies, contributing to the rich diversity of this extensive plant family. Its ability to thrive in challenging environments, coupled with its unique aesthetic and medicinal properties, underscores its role as a valuable component of the flora in the regions it inhabits.
Mariola’s resilience, practical uses, and subtle beauty make it a noteworthy subject of study for botanists and a treasured element of the natural landscape where it grows.
Common Names
Eng: mariola
En: Mariola
Es: Mariola
Synonyms
- Parthenium ramosissimum (DC.)
Distribution
- Arizona (native)
- Mexico Central (native)
- Mexico Gulf (native)
- Mexico Northeast (native)
- Mexico Northwest (native)
- Mexico Southwest (native)
- Nevada (native)
- New Mexico (native)
- Texas (native)
- Utah (native)
Additional Images
Flower
Taken Aug 22, 2014 by EOL − Richard Spellenberg (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jan 28, 2014 by EOL − Richard Reynolds (cc-by-nc)
Taken Aug 8, 2010 by EOL − Anthony Mendoza (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Aug 22, 2014 by EOL − Richard Spellenberg (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Apr 23, 2020 by lira leslie (cc-by-sa)
Leaf
Taken Aug 9, 2021 by amanda shields (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Jan 14, 2014 by EOL − Carlos Velazco (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jan 14, 2014 by EOL − Carlos Velazco (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jan 14, 2014 by EOL − Carlos Velazco (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jan 27, 2014 by EOL − Richard Reynolds (cc-by-nc)
Taken Aug 22, 2014 by EOL − Richard Spellenberg (cc-by-nc-sa)
Fruit
Taken Aug 22, 2014 by EOL − Richard Spellenberg (cc-by-nc-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3086793)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:236511-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Parthenium incanum Kunth)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Shrub
