Status:
valid
Authors:
(L.) Small
Source:
gcc
Year:
1903
Citation Micro:
Fl. S.E. U.S. 1251, 1340 (1903)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000038453
Common Names
- Melanthera
- White Melanthera
- White Wild Petunia
Description
Melanthera nivea (also called Snowy Melanthera, among many other common names) is an annual herb with small white flowers and linear leaves. It is native to South America and is found in dry, grassy habitats.
Uses & Benefits
Melanthera nivea is used as an ornamental plant, for its essential oils, and for its medicinal properties. It is also used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
The flower of Melanthera nivea is a white, daisy-like flower with yellow centers. The seeds are small, black, and have a short, white pappus. The seedlings are small, with a single, narrow leaf and a short stem.
Cultivation and Propagation
Melanthera nivea is a perennial herbaceous plant that is native to the Caribbean. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Propagation is done by seed or division. Seeds should be sown in spring or autumn in a sunny position. Division is done in spring or autumn by dividing the clumps of plants.
Where to Find Melanthera nivea
Melanthera nivea is native to the Caribbean, and is found in the Bahamas, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Haiti, Jamaica, and Puerto Rico.
Melanthera nivea FAQ
What is the scientific name of Melanthera nivea?
Melanthera nivea
What is the natural habitat of Melanthera nivea?
It is found in dry areas of Asia, including India, China, and Japan.
What are the common uses of Melanthera nivea?
It is used as an ornamental plant, for medicinal purposes, and as a food source.
Species in the Melanthera genus
Melanthera felicis,
Melanthera elliptica,
Melanthera angustifolia,
Melanthera nivea,
Melanthera rhombifolia,
Melanthera lifuana,
Melanthera parvifolia,
Melanthera elliptica,
Melanthera robinsonii,
Melanthera richardsiae,
Melanthera latifolia,
Melanthera orientalis,
Melanthera robusta,
Species in the Asteraceae family
Aaronsohnia pubescens,
Aaronsohnia factorovskyi,
Abrotanella filiformis,
Abrotanella rostrata,
Abrotanella linearis,
Abrotanella trilobata,
Abrotanella muscosa,
Abrotanella inconspicua,
Abrotanella trichoachaenia,
Abrotanella caespitosa,
Abrotanella nivigena,
Abrotanella pusilla,
Abrotanella linearifolia,
Abrotanella papuana,
Abrotanella rosulata,
Abrotanella emarginata,
Abrotanella fertilis,
Abrotanella spathulata,
Abrotanella purpurea,
Abrotanella patearoa,
Abrotanella submarginata,
Abrotanella diemii,
Abrotanella scapigera,
Abrotanella forsterioides,
Acamptopappus shockleyi,
Acamptopappus sphaerocephalus,
Acanthocephalus benthamianus,
Acanthocephalus amplexifolius,
Acanthocladium dockeri,
Acanthodesmos distichus,
Acanthodesmos gibarensis,
Acanthospermum humile,
Acanthospermum consobrinum,
Acanthospermum glabratum,
Acanthospermum microcarpum,
Acanthospermum hispidum,
Acanthospermum australe,
Acanthospermum lecocarpoides,
Acanthostyles buniifolius,
Acanthostyles saucechicoensis,
Achillea buiana,
Achillea conrathii,
Achillea cucullata,
Achillea styriaca,
Achillea clavennae,
Achillea cappadocica,
Achillea huber-morathii,
Achillea ptarmicoides,
Achillea sieheana,
Achillea barrelieri,