Galinsoga, Genus, spp., Multiple species,
- Genus
- Multiple species
galinsogas
Andean South America, Central America, and Mexico
SunFull Sun – Part Shade
WaterMedium
Overview
Galinsoga is a genus of fast-growing annual herbs in the family Asteraceae, native to the montane regions of Central and South America and now naturalized as agricultural and garden weeds across temperate and tropical zones worldwide. The two most widespread species, G. parviflora and G. quadriradiata, grow 10-60 cm (4-24 in) tall on branching, brittle stems. Leaves are opposite, ovate, 1-7 cm (0.4-2.8 in) long, with toothed margins and three main veins; G. quadriradiata carries dense spreading hairs while G. parviflora is nearly smooth. The flower heads are 3-6 mm (0.1-0.2 in) across, each with four or five small white ray florets, usually three-toothed at the tip, surrounding a yellow disc. A single plant produces several thousand seeds and can complete its life cycle in as little as seven weeks, allowing several generations in one growing season. Seeds germinate without a dormancy period and spread readily in disturbed soil, which is why the genus ranks among troublesome row-crop weeds. Plants are frost-sensitive and die with the first hard freeze.
Native Range
Galinsoga originates in the Andes and adjacent highlands of Mexico, Central America, and South America. From there both common species have spread to nearly every continent as introduced weeds of cultivated and disturbed ground.Suggested Uses
Galinsoga has no ornamental use and is treated as a weed in gardens and croplands. The young leaves and stems are edible and are used as a cooked green and seasoning in parts of South America and Africa, where the plant is known as guascas.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height4" - 2'
Width/Spread6" - 1'
Bloom Information
Flowering begins a few weeks after germination and continues from late spring until the first autumn frost, June to October in temperate regions. Because generations overlap, flowers and ripe seed appear on the same plant at once. Each head is self-fertile and sets seed without cross-pollination.
Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
White with yellow centerFoliage Description
GreenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 4-8 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Water & Climate
Water Needs
