Pineapple weed - Matricaria discoidea (Taxonomy, Characteristics, Culture, Images, Control)

Pineapple weed

Also known as: Disc mayweed, Rayless mayweed

Pineapple weed (Matricaria discoidea) is a common weed with cute cone shape "flowers", which are actually composed of many tubular yellow-green small flowers. Its leaves give off a sweet smell when crushed. The scent is regarded as somewhere between that of pineapple and chamomile - thus the plant's common names.

Scientific classification

Species

Pineapple weed (Matricaria discoidea)

Asters bellflowers fanflowers and allies

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Weeds

Weed or not

Annual

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Mid spring, Late spring, Summer, Early fall, Mid fall

Bloom Time

Summer

Harvest Time

5 cm to 25 cm

Plant Height

30 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Brown

Fruit Color

Yellow, Green, White

Flower Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Images of Pineapple weed

Distribution of Pineapple weed

Distribution Map

Pineapple weed is indigenous to a major region in Northern Europe and has become naturalized across various regions of the globe. Introduced to both the Eastern and Western Hemispheres, pineapple weed's reach spans continents such as Europe, Asia, and the Americas, as well as remote islands and regions. It thrives in a mix of temperate climates and has successfully established itself in numerous temperate zones worldwide.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Fields, gardens, roadsides, disturbed areas, footpaths and similar places

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Weed Control

Pineapple weed grows as a weed across the northern, central, and western United States and throughout Canada, as well as northeast Asia. It prefers dry areas to grow and is found in gardens, fields, and along roadsides. Pineapple weed can reproduce prolifically if not contained, and as such, it appears on Alaska’s state invasive species list. What's more, as a ragweed relative, the plant has pollen that can cause serious allergic reactions. The weed will also compete with other plants for nutrients and space. Hand weed or hoe seedlings out before they flower or cover them with mulch.

How to Control It

The best season for the removal of pineapple weed is in late spring to early summer, before the plant starts to produce seeds. Flowering usually starts in June, so it's crucial to control the weed before this state to prevent further spread. Here are a few organic or interesting methods for managing this plant:

Hand-pulling: This is the most straightforward approach. Wearing gloves, firmly grasp the plant at the base and gently pull to uproot the entire plant, ensuring that no parts are left behind.
Solarisation: Pack and cover the plant area with a clear plastic sheeting in the hot summer months. The heat of the sun will increase the temperature under the plastic and kill the pineapple weed.
Cover Crops: Plant other fast-growing plants that can outcompete pineapple weed for nutrients, sunlight and space. Examples of cover crops are rye, mustard, and buckwheat.
Vinegar sprays: Spray a high-strength vinegar directly onto pineapple weed. Vinegar's acidic properties could help kill the weed. Remember to protect the surrounding plants as vinegar can harm them too.
Composting: After removal, place pineapple weed in a compost heap to break down. A properly managed compost heap should reach temperatures that kill any seeds present.

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Care Guide for Pineapple weed

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Pineapple weed flourishes in semi-arid environments, requiring minimal moisture and exhibiting drought tolerance. It prefers dry conditions and should be watered weekly. As an herbaceous plant found outdoors, it relies on adequate rain distribution during its growing season for optimal growth.

Propagation: Pineapple weed is propagated by sowing seeds in spring using well-draining soil. Seedlings typically emerge in 2-3 weeks, requiring maintained moisture levels for optimal growth.

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Images of Pineapple weed

Distribution of Pineapple weed

Weed Control

Care Guide for Pineapple weed

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