VERBESINA encelioides (Golden Crownbeard)

VERBESINA encelioides (Golden Crownbeard) is a flowering plant native to the Americas and can be found from the southwestern United States (including California, Arizona, and Texas) through Mexico and into South America. It belongs to the Asteraceae family, which includes sunflowers and daisies.

Golden crownbeard is an annual or short-lived perennial plant that typically grows to a height of 1 to 3 feet (0.3 to 0.9 meters). The stems are erect and branching, with a rough texture. The leaves are alternate, toothed, and lanceolate in shape. The plant produces bright yellow, daisy-like flowers with a prominent center disc and ray flowers.

Verbesina encelioides is adaptable to various habitats and can be found in open, disturbed areas such as fields, roadsides, and desert scrublands. It can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions, including sandy or rocky soils.

The plant blooms from late spring to fall, producing showy yellow flowers. The flowers attract a variety of pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and other insects. After pollination, the flowers develop into small, dry fruits called achenes, which are dispersed by wind.

Verbesina encelioides provides important nectar and pollen sources for bees and butterflies. It is also a host plant for the caterpillars of some butterfly species, including the bordered patch (Chlosyne lacinia). The plant's seeds are eaten by birds and small mammals.

Overall, Verbesina encelioides (golden crownbeard) is a vibrant flowering plant with ecological significance and traditional medicinal uses.