Wild Quinine (Parthenium integrifolium)

Wild Quinine

Parthenium integrifolium

Its fluffy white blooms hold subtle medicinal charm. Perennial herbaceous wildflower; common name: wild quinine.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; tolerates dry, low-nutrient growing conditions
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Watering Water deeply when top 5 cm of soil is dry; drought-tolerant once established
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Temperature Hardy to USDA zones 3-9; withstands cold winters and hot summer heat
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Oval to lanceolate, serrated margins, fuzzy green foliage
  • Flower: Dense, flat-topped clusters of small white composite blooms
  • Stem: Erect, hairy green stems branching near the top
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil evenly moist during active growth; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot

Fertilization

Apply diluted balanced fertilizer once monthly. Use low-nitrogen fertilizer to promote compact growth and abundant blooms

Eggshell powder top-dress:Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly around plant base once every 3 months; avoid direct contact with foliage to prevent burning
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent blooms to encourage extended flowering through late summer
  • Cut back stems to ground level in late autumn to promote healthy new spring growth
  • Thin overcrowded clumps every 2-3 years to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: No known toxicity to cats

Humans: No known toxic effects to humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Traditional medicinal use for fever and pain relief; ornamental wildflower for pollinator gardens