Stiff greenthread
Thelesperma trifidum
Family: Asteraceae or Compositae
What it is like
Thelesperma trifidum is a ANNUAL/BIENNIAL growing to 1 m (3ft 3in). It is in flower from June to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.
Height (m): 1
Where it is found
Calcareous barrens and plains. Dry soils.
Central and Southern N. America - South Dakota, Missouri and Nebraska to Colorado, Texas and Mexico.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 1
A tea is made from the leaves.
Tea: the various herb teas that can be used in place of tea, plus the genuine article.
Medicine
Rating: 1
The plant has been used in the treatment of children with tuberculosis.
TB: Plants used in the treatment of tuberculosis
Other
Rating:
How it is grown
Succeeds in any moderately fertile well-drained soil in full sun.
Propagating it: Seed - sow spring in situ, only just covering the seed. In dry weather the seed should be watered in.
Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;
Habit: Annual/Biennial
Hardiness: 0-0
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: No shade
Moisture: Dry, moist