Western Snakeroot
Ageratina occidentalis

Family: Asteraceae or Compositae

What it is like

Ageratina occidentalis is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.7 m (2ft 4in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in flower from August to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. The plant is self-fertile. 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 can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Height (m): 0.7

Where it is found

Yellow Pine Forest, Red Fir Forest, Lodgepole Forest, Redwood Forest and Douglas-Fir Forest at elevations of 1900 - 3300 metres in California.

Western N. America.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 0

Medicine

Rating: 1

The plant is used externally in the treatment of rheumatism and swellings.

Antirheumatic: Treats rheumatism.

Other

Rating:

How it is grown

Succeeds in an ordinary well-drained but moisture retentive garden soil in sun or part shade.

Propagating it: Seed - sow spring in a cold frame, only just covering the seed. When large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and plant them out in the summer. Division in spring.

Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;

Habit: Perennial

Hardiness: 5-9

Growth:

Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)

Shade: Semi-shade, no shade

Moisture: Moist

Things to keep in mind

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

Eupatorium occidentalis.