Identification
This native perennial has a hairy, stout stem, up to 4 feet tall, which is branched near the top only (A,E). Lance-shaped leaves have an extensive network of veins giving them a wrinkled, rough-textured appearance. The paired leaves are joined at the base, surrounding the stem (D), a feature which separates it from other closely related species. Many dense clusters of small, creamy white colored flowers (B,C) occur in flat-topped heads at the ends of branches.
Found in wet areas including wet prairies, streamsides, marshes and ditches. It is uncommon on the Fontenelle Forest floodplain, mainly in wet ditches along Camp Gifford Road. It is rare at Neale Woods.
Several explanations for the name boneset (bone-set) have been offered. Some claim it was derived from its use as a tea to alleviate “break-bone fever” (Dengue). Another source states that its leaves were wrapped with bandages around splints to help set broken bones.
The content of NatureSearch is provided by dedicated volunteer Naturalists of Fontenelle Forest who strive to provide the most accurate information available. Contributors of the images retain their copyrights. The point of contact for this page is: Roland Barth.