Family: Asteraceae, Aster view all from this family

Description Yellow, sunflower-like flower heads with long, narrow, straggly rays surrounding a darker central disk atop a tall hairy stem.
Flowers: Head 2-4" (5-10 cm) wide.
Leaves: Large, rough, toothed, white-woolly beneath; stem leaves stalkless, clasping stem; basal leaves to 20" (50 cm) long, with long stalks.
Height: 2-6' (60-180 cm).

Warning This plant has been used medicinally but may have toxic effects. Sensitivity to a toxin varies with a person’s age, weight, physical condition, and individual susceptibility. Children are most vulnerable because of their curiosity and small size. Toxicity can vary in a plant according to season, the plant’s different parts, and its stage of growth; and plants can absorb toxic substances, such as herbicides, pesticides, and pollutants from the water, air, and soil.

Flower July-September.

Habitat Fields and roadsides.

Range Ontario east to Newfoundland, south to North Carolina, west to Missouri, and north to Minnesota; also along the Pacific Coast from British Columbia southward.

Discussion Perhaps of Asian origin, Elecampane was introduced to America by early colonists. In the 19th century a tincture of its roots was thought useful in reducing fevers and as a diuretic, but it may have caused more illness than it cured.