#113 Wedelia trilobata Common Names: wedelia, Z Herbe a Femme Family: Asteraceae/Compositae (aster/daisy Family) Get link to this Profile or click for data record #113 e-mail this page

Description
Low-growing mat about 10" with deeply lobed leaves. Blooms profusely with 1" yellow-orange flowers resembling marigolds or zinnias, which are borne singly on the end of each stem. Plant creeps and roots at nodes, making a dense ground cover.

Location
West Indies, Hawaii, south Florida, Central America, West Africa, especially at low elevations.

Culture
Grows best in moist, well-drained, fertile soil, but does fine in poor soil as well. Quite adaptable in tropical climates.
Light: Sun to part shade.
Moisture: Moist to average.
Hardiness: USDA Zones 9 is northernmost boundary.
Propagation: Division.

Usage
Excellent ground cover in warm climates. Especially good for soil retention and erosion control. Very attractive because of nearly constant and prolific blooming. It may be mowed to keep low and manicured.

Features
The plant has use in traditional medicine: crushed leaves are used as a poultice; tea is given to alleviate symptoms of colds and flu; and it is used in combination with other herbs to clear the placenta after birth.

WARNING
Farm animals have aborted fetuses after grazing on Wedelia.

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