Mayweed chamomile is an annual bushy, branched plant that is ill-smelling. Plants are from 1/2 to 2 feet tall with leaves several times divided into narrow segments. Flowers 3/4 inch diameter, usually having 12 white ray flowers, are borne at ends of branches and in leaf axils. Flowering occurs from May to October.
Corn Chamomile (Anthemis arvensis L.) looks almost identical but is easily identified because of its lack of odor.
Mayweed is a European native which occurs worldwide. It is of no value, but common throughout the Pacific Northwest and California. It can adapt to many different growing conditions and is commonly found in waste areas, barn yards, cultivated fields and overgrazed pastures. Contact with Mayweed may cause skin rashes, blistering of livestock muzzles, and irritation to mucous membranes of grazing livestock. It can impart a strong flavor to the milk of dairy animals.
Non-standard name: dog fennel |
