Medicinal Wildflowers

The African Iris (Dietes bicolor), with its striking, sword-like leaves and delicate, yellow-and-brown flowers, is a common sight in gardens across the globe. But did you know this ornamental plant also boasts a history of medicinal usage in its native Africa? While not as widely recognized in mo

(Broadleaf Plantain) (Narrowleaf Plantain) You may have stumbled across plantain while being on a walk or partaking in outdoor activities. Plantain (Plantago major), also known as waybread and ribwort, is a flowering plant that is native to Eurasia, but is found mostly in temperate regions of

Chickweed (Stellaria media) Chickweed (Stellaria media), also known as winterweed, birdweed, and chickenwort, is a flowering plant in the carnation family. It is native to Eurasia and North Africa, but is found throughout the United States.  Chickweed is a winter annual that is mostly found during

Goldenmane Tickseed ( Coreopsis basalis ), also known as Golden Wave Tickseed, is a cheerful wildflower native to the southeastern and south-central United States. With its vibrant golden-yellow blooms and delicate foliage, it brightens up meadows and gardens alike. But this beauty offers more tha

Damiana (Turnera diffusa), a shrub native to Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean, has been prized for centuries for its potential to enhance well-being. With its fragrant leaves and delicate yellow flowers, this plant has a rich history of traditional use, particularly as an aphrodisiac.

The common sunflower (Helianthus annuus), with its towering stalk and radiant golden head, is a symbol of sunshine and joy. But this beloved plant offers more than just beauty. Throughout history, various cultures have recognized the sunflower's hidden potential for healing and well-being. Let's e

The Blue Mistflower (Conoclinium coelestinum), with its fluffy clusters of lavender-blue blossoms, is a familiar sight in meadows and gardens across eastern North America. But this lovely wildflower is more than just a pretty face. It also holds a rich history of medicinal use, particularly among

We've all been there – enjoying a walk in nature when suddenly, we're covered in those pesky little burs that cling to our clothes. These "sticky" seeds belong to the Beggar-ticks plant (Bidens species), a common weed often dismissed as a nuisance. But what if I told you this tenacious plant has a

Hey everyone! So, I was clearing out my grandma's attic the other day and stumbled upon this old journal of hers. Turns out, she was quite the herbal enthusiast! One entry that really caught my eye was about Lantana. I remember her having these beautiful (but kind of stinky!) flowers growing in he

The Indian Blanket ( Gaillardia pulchella ), with its vibrant red and yellow blossoms resembling a colorful tapestry, is a cheerful wildflower native to North America. Beyond its striking beauty, this plant holds a history of medicinal use, particularly among Native American tribes who revered it f

Lyreleaf Sage ( Salvia lyrata), also known as cancerweed, and wild sage, Lyreleaf Sage, is considered a wild edible and medicinal plant. Flowers, stems, and leaves have been known to be prepared as food. It once served as a staple food and medicine long before Europeans arrived in North America. The

The Entireleaf Indian Paintbrush (Castilleja integra), with its striking red-orange bracts that resemble a painter's brushstrokes, is a captivating wildflower native to the western United States. While often admired for its beauty, this plant also holds a history of medicinal use among Native Amer

Crow Poison, also known as False Garlic (Nothoscordum bivalve), is a common wildflower found throughout North America. While its name might conjure images of toxicity, this humble plant has a history of medicinal use, particularly in Native American traditions. However, it's crucial to approach Cr

The Clasping-Leaved Coneflower (Dracopis amplexicaulis), with its vibrant yellow rays and distinctive cone-shaped center, is a cheerful wildflower native to the central United States. Often found gracing prairies and meadows, this plant has a rich history of medicinal use, particularly among Nativ

With its vibrant blue flowers and captivating spiral shape, Blue Curls (Trichostema spp.) is a striking wildflower native to North America. But this beauty is more than just a feast for the eyes – it also boasts a rich history of medicinal use, particularly among Native American tribes. Let's delv

The Blackfoot Daisy (Melampodium leucanthum), a cheerful little wildflower native to the southwestern United States and Mexico, brightens up arid landscapes with its abundance of sunny, white blooms. But beyond its beauty, this hardy plant holds secrets that may contribute to human health. While n

Lance-leaved coreopsis (Coreopsis lanceolata), often recognized for its cheerful, golden-yellow blooms, is a perennial wildflower native to North America. Popularly grown in gardens and frequently seen in wild meadows, this vibrant plant is more than just an ornamental delight. Its potential medic

Hairy Vetch (Vicia villosa), with its delicate climbing tendrils and clusters of vibrant purple flowers, is widely celebrated as a cover crop and forage plant. Native to Europe and Asia, this legume enriches the soil, supports sustainable agriculture, and provides forage for livestock. However,

The Gumhead plant ( Grindelia squarrosa ), also known as Gumweed or Curlycup Gumweed, might not be the most glamorous wildflower, but this sticky plant packs a surprising punch when it comes to medicinal properties. Native to western North America, Gumhead has a long history of use in traditional

The Downy Lobelia (Lobelia puberula), with its graceful spikes of lavender-blue flowers, is a charming wildflower native to North America. While often admired for its beauty, this plant also possesses a history of medicinal use, particularly among Native American tribes. Let's explore the potentia

The Crape Myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica), with its vibrant blossoms and smooth, exfoliating bark, is a beloved ornamental tree that graces gardens and streetscapes worldwide. But did you know this beauty has a hidden talent? Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Crape Myrtle boasts a history of medicina

The Bull Thistle (Cirsium vulgare), with its imposing spiky leaves and vibrant purple flowers, might be considered a nuisance by gardeners. But this tenacious plant, often found in fields and meadows, has a long history of medicinal use that dates back centuries. So before you banish it from your

The cheerful Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta), with its vibrant golden petals and dark center, is a familiar sight in gardens and meadows. But this beloved wildflower is more than just a pretty face – it also boasts a rich history of medicinal use, particularly among Native American tribes. Let