Tasselflower, Scarlet Tasselflower, Flora's Paintbrush, Cupid's Paintbrush, Pain Pinceau
Emilia coccinea
🌿 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
Edible young leaves (use sparingly, may contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids), potential ornamental value attracting pollinators like butterflies and small bees. Can be used as a short-term green manure or cover crop, adding biomass to the soil. No notable cultivars are particularly relevant to permaculture beyond aesthetic color variations.
Permapeople description
Emilia coccinea, also known as scarlet tassel flower, is a species of flowering plant in the daisy family. It is native to tropical Africa and Asia, and is often found in disturbed areas and along roadsides.
Botanical description
Emilia coccinea is an annual herb in the Asteraceae (sunflower) family, typically growing to a height of 1-2 feet. It features lance-shaped, slightly succulent leaves, often with toothed margins. The distinctive flowers are small, tubular, and bright scarlet to orange-red, arranged in compact, tassel-like heads. The plant has a slender, branching stem. The fruit is an achene with a pappus of white bristles, aiding in wind dispersal. It's native to Africa and Asia but has naturalized in many tropical and subtropical regions.
Companion planting
No well-documented companion planting associations are available. It is generally considered non-competitive and may work well with vegetables requiring less sunlight, due to its smaller size. Avoid planting near plants susceptible to similar pests or diseases.
Propagation methods
Primarily propagated by seed. Seeds can be sown directly in the garden after the last frost or started indoors 6-8 weeks prior. Self-seeding is common in favorable conditions.
History and traditions
In some African cultures, Emilia coccinea has been traditionally used for medicinal purposes, although specific documented uses are scarce. It's also used as a decorative plant due to its vibrant flowers. Historical records concerning its specific use are limited, but it's likely been used in local remedies wherever it naturally occurs.
Usage calendar
Flowering typically occurs throughout the warm months (late spring to fall), depending on the local climate. Seeds can be collected in the late summer or fall after flowering. Planting is best done in spring after the danger of frost has passed. No pruning is required.