Pineapple Weed

Scientific name: Matricaria discoidea
Abundance: uncommon
What: flowers, leaves
How: raw, tea
Where: dry, abused soil such as dirt roads
When: spring, summer, fall
Nutritional Value: minimal


Identifying Photos

Pineapple weeds.
Pineapple Weed

Whole pineapple weed plant.
Pineapple Weed

Closeup of pineapple weed yellowish-green flowers.
Pineapple Weed


Distribution

North American distribution, attributed to U. S. Department of Agriculture.
map of Pineapple Weed distribution in North America

USDA does not have records of this plant appearing Texas but I have seen it in Harris county.


Pineapple weed is an amazing plant which seems to thrive in abused soil such as dirt roads, driveways, and other dry/sandy soil. Yet a very calming tea similar to chamomile can be made from the plant.

The crushed plant can be rubbed on exposed skin as a weak insect repellent.