The pineapple weed is an annual plant native to western North America and NE Asia but which has become a cosmopolitan weed. It is in the family Asteraceae. The flower head is cone-shaped, composed of dense-packed yellowish-green corollas, and lacking ray-florets. The leaves are pinnately dissected and sweet-scented when crushed. The plant grows 3 to 12 inches (7.5 - 30 cm) high.
According to ITIS the specific name is Matricaria discoides DC, but many synonyms are in the literature, including M. matricarioides, M. suaveolens, and Chamomilla suaveolens.
The flowers have a chamomile/pineapple aroma (press between your fingers to release this scent). They are reported to be edible and can be used to make tea [1][2].
References and External Links
- Robbins, W. W., Margaret K. Bellue, and Walter S. Ball. 1970. Weeds of California. Documents and Publications, Sacramento. 547 p.
- University of California, Statewide Integrated Pest Management Program
