Daucus pusillus

Daucus pusillus is a species of wild carrot known by the common names American wild carrot and Rattlesnake Weed. This plant is native to North America, where it is widespread across much of the United States and Mexico.

Description

Daucus pusillus is an annual herb growing up to about half a meter in maximum height. The leaves are divided into many small, narrow segments. The plant produces an umbel of white flowers with a dark red or purple center. The fruit is a spiny, ribbed body under a centimeter long.

Distribution and habitat

Daucus pusillus is found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, woodlands, and disturbed areas. It is often found in sandy soils.

Uses

While not as widely used as its relative, the domestic carrot (Daucus carota), Daucus pusillus has been used in traditional medicine. The plant has been used by Native American tribes to treat a variety of ailments.

See also

• List of Daucus species
• Wild carrot

References

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