365 Urban Species. #134: Pineapple Weed

[urbpan]

Urban species #134: Pineapple weed Matricaria matricarioides

Some plants just don't seem to mind being stepped on. Pineapple weed is one of those weeds that seems to grow right in the path of foot traffic. It is tolerant of well-compacted, nutrient-poor soils, so it's a natural for those areas between roads and sidewalks, driveways and front doors, and footpaths and parks. As you tread through it, you may notice the faint pineapple aroma it gives off. Crush one of the small flower tops (a little smaller than a pencil eraser, usually) with your fingers and you can really smell the pineapple flavor. A close relative of chamomile, pineapple weed's essence can be likewise be enjoyed in a mild tea.

Unlike many wild plants found in cities in North America, pineapple weed actually originates on this continent. It once was found only on the west coast, but has become an urban species all across the country.




This slope is continually washed by storm runoff from the Jamaicaway, leaving the soil sandy and nutrient-depleted, and probably polluted.

Comments

[obsidiangecko.livejournal.com]

Ah, unlike a lot of the other plants cross-continent, I knew I recognised this one instantly. My elder sister, once a "traveller" used to make a beautiful tea out of this plant and used it in a lot of cooking too. This plant certainly brings me back to my childhood, gardening in the scottish highlands as it is also nigh on impossible to pull up once it is established.