Rainforest Plants - Ageratum

Family: Asteraceaevarious tribal cultures wherever this plant grows
Genus: Ageratumnaturally. It acts quickly and effectively for treatment of
Species: Ageratum conyzoidesskin burns and wounds. The Brazilian Drugs Central
Common names: White weedrecommends this herb as an anti-rheumatic. Ageratum
General Description: Ageratum is an erect, herbaceousis used by some alternative medicines communities for
annual, that can grow up to 30 inches tall; its stems areanti-inflammatory and antioxidant treatments due some
covered with fine white hairs; its leaves grow onof its properties.
opposite sides of the stem. Ageratum is a member ofAgeratum is a genus of about three dozen plants, all
the Daisy family. This plant enjoys light shade and isannuals from the tropics Ageratum grows quickly to
one of the garden's longest lasting blues. It is a tenderform compact mounds of foliage, covered with
plant, typically growing close to the ground.blossoms most of the summer and fall growing
Location: Ageratum ranges from Southeastern Northseason. This plant is short but showy. The blooms are
America to Central America, but the center of origin isstriking colors of blues, whites and lavenders.
in Central America and the Caribbean. Ageratum isThis plant combines well with other summer flowers in
also found in several countries in tropical andflower arrangements and bouquets. Its even growth
sub-tropical regions, including Brazil.pattern makes it well suited as a border plant.
Uses: Ageratum is a plant that repels insects andAgeratums are on display in public gardens frequently
nematodes. It is widely used in traditional medicine bybecause of their beautiful blue color.