Billygoat-weed, Chick bush, Tropical whiteweed, Bastard agrimony, Goat weed
Ageratum conyzoides
🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
While not widely cultivated, billygoat-weed possesses medicinal properties. Extracts and preparations are used traditionally as a poultice for wounds, skin infections, and as an insect repellent. The plant's strong odor may also deter some garden pests, though palatability to livestock is low. Caution is advised as some varieties contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids and could be toxic if ingested in large quantities.
Permapeople description
Tropical whiteweed is an annual plant in the Asteraceae family. It is native to tropical America.
Botanical description
Ageratum conyzoides is an annual herb in the Asteraceae family, growing up to 1 meter tall. It has ovate to triangular leaves with crenate or serrate margins and opposite arrangement. The plant features small, fluffy, bluish-purple flower heads clustered in terminal corymbs. The fruit is an achene with a pappus of bristles, aiding in wind dispersal. It thrives in disturbed areas, waste grounds, and along roadsides, demonstrating aggressive dispersal.
Companion planting
Due to its weedy nature and potential allelopathic effects, companion planting is generally not recommended. The plant is more likely to compete with other crops than provide beneficial associations. Its strong odor might repel some insects, however more research is needed to confirm benefits.
Propagation methods
Propagation is primarily through seed. Seeds can be directly sown in spring or early summer. The plant readily self-seeds and can become weedy. Cuttings are also possible, but seed propagation is more common and effective.
History and traditions
Historically, Ageratum conyzoides has been used in traditional medicine across Africa, Asia, and South America. It has been applied for wound healing, treatment of skin conditions, and as an anti-inflammatory agent. In some cultures, it is used in rituals or as a traditional remedy for various ailments. Traditional uses, however, require caution due to potential toxicity.
Usage calendar
Flowering typically occurs from spring to autumn. Seed collection is possible in late summer and autumn. Sowing is best done in spring after the last frost.