American Burnweed – 8/13/20

Observer: Rita Corey

Observation Date: 8/13/20

Observation Time: 2:00 p.m.

Observation Location: Rattlesnake Hill

Common Name: American burnweed (a.k.a. fireweed)

Scientific Name: Erechtites hieraciifolius

Comments: Burnweed is a native annual in the daisy family, Asteraceae. American Burnweed is an underrated and unappreciated wild edible. Although Burnweed has no history as a food source here in America, everywhere else in the world where it grows it is eaten. It’s a common food in all of Asia and most of Europe. It also has medicinal properties2. The oil derived from the plant can be used to treat wounds, hemorrhages, poison ivy rashes, and other ailments such as piles.

Burnweed got its unique name by being one of the first plants to grow after a fire has burned out an area. Burnweed is also referred to as fireweed.

More Information: Go Botany