Two-color rabbit-tobacco (Pseudognaphalium biolettii, Opera Bot. 104: 147 (1991))

Family: Asteraceae

Author: Anderb.

Bibliography: Opera Bot. 104: 147 (1991)

Year: 1991

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Pseudognaphalium

Vegetable: False

Observations: California to N. Mexico

Description

Two-color rabbit-tobacco, scientifically known as Pseudognaphalium biolettii, is a distinctive plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. This species is named after its unique appearance, which showcases a charming blend of hues, earning it the common name for its characteristic two-toned foliage and flowers.

The plant is native to diverse regions stretching from California to Northern Mexico. Adapted to these varied environments, Two-color rabbit-tobacco thrives in a range of habitats, often found in both coastal and inland locales. Its presence in such widespread areas demonstrates its adaptability and resilience in different climates and soil types.

Two-color rabbit-tobacco is recognized for its medicinal properties and historical use in traditional medicine. It has been utilized by indigenous cultures for its therapeutic benefits, often employed in remedies for ailments such as colds, coughs, and other respiratory issues. The plant’s foliage and flowers are typically dried and used in teas or poultices.

Aesthetic appeal is another significant feature of Pseudognaphalium biolettii. Its unique coloration and texture make it a visually striking addition to natural landscapes and cultivated gardens alike. The plant blooms with small, inconspicuous flowers that are often white or pale yellow, contrasting beautifully with the darker tones of its leaves.

In the scientific community, the lectotype for Pseudognaphalium biolettii was described in the publication “Opera Botanica” in 1991 by the author Anderb. This formal classification provides valuable insight into the plant’s taxonomy, contributing to a better understanding of its characteristics and distribution.

Overall, the Two-color rabbit-tobacco is a notable member of the Asteraceae family, celebrated for its unique appearance, cultural significance, and medicinal uses. Its adaptability to various environments from California to Northern Mexico showcases its ecological versatility and highlights its importance in both natural and human-influenced settings.

Common Names

Eng: two-color rabbit-tobacco, twocolor cudweed
En: Two-color rabbit-tobacco, Twocolor cudweed

Synonyms

• Gnaphalium bicolor (Bioletti)

Distribution

• California (native)
• Mexico Northeast (native)
• Mexico Northwest (native)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Apr 15, 2006 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)

Taken Dec 14, 2008 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Dec 22, 2005 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Mar 4, 2008 by EOL − Jorg and Mimi Fleige (cc-by-nc)

Taken Oct 28, 2008 by EOL − Zoya Akulova (cc-by-nc)

Habit

Taken Nov 15, 2015 by EOL − Jesse Rorabaugh (cc-by)

Taken Nov 15, 2015 by EOL − Jesse Rorabaugh (cc-by)

Taken May 28, 2008 by EOL − Gary A. Monroe (cc-by-nc)

Taken Dec 14, 2008 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Dec 22, 2005 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Leaf

Taken Oct 28, 2008 by EOL − Zoya Akulova (cc-by-nc)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3101072)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:961686-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Pseudognaphalium biolettii Anderb.)

Specifications

Growth habit>: Subshrub, Forb/herb

Growth