Flowering Season: March to October or year-round with adequate water
Elevation: 3,500 to 6,000 feet (1,068-1,829 m) or more
Habitat Preferences: Dry rocky slopes, sandy soils, mesas, low rolling hills; limestone soils; desert scrub to pinyon-juniper.
Recorded Range: Pricklyleaf Dogweed is primarily found in the southwestern United States in, AZ, NM, NV, TX and UT. It is also found scattered in northern and north east Mexico. Most heavily populated in AZ, NM and TX; small populations in southern UT and southeast NV.
Genus Information: In North America there are 8 species and 13 accepted taxa overall for Thymophylla. Worldwide, The Plant List includes 13 accepted species names and a further 30 scientific names of infraspecific rank for Thymophylla.
The genus Thymophylla was published in 1816 by Mariano Lagasca y Segura, (1776-1839).
The genus Thymophylla was previously included in the larger genus Dyssodia, which was published in 1801 by Antonio José (Joseph) Cavanilles, (1745-1804).
In the Southwestern United States: Arizona has 3 species of Thymophylla, California has 1 species, Nevada has 2 species, New Mexico has 4 species, Texas has 7 species, Utah has 2 species. Data approximate, subject to revision.
Comments: Pricklyleaf Dogweed or Fetid Marigold has its major population centers in Arizona, New Mexico and northwest Texas suggesting that this species is more closely aligned with the Chiricahua Desert. An interesting observation as its closest relative Fiveneedle Pricklyleaf, which is similar looking, is more aligned with the Mojave Desert.
As one of the common names "Fetid Marigold" might suggest, Dogweeds often have strong odors, generally thought to be more offensive than pleasant. The common name “Pricklyleaf” is often used for members of the Thymophylla genus.
In Southwest Desert Flora see similar species, Fiveneedle Pricklyleaf, Thymophylla pentachaeta which smaller and has more linear leaves, divided or lobed leaves and is slightly larger.
Importance to Wildlife, Birds and Livestock
Pricklyleaf Dogweed, Thymophylla acerosa has small showy daisy-like attractive flowers, the flowers, their seeds and plants may be visited by hummingbirds and/or small mammals including rodents and granivorous birds in search of food, nectar and protection through cover.
Beneficial Value to Butterflies, Honey Bees and Insects
Pricklyleaf Dogweed, Thymophylla acerosa has small showy daisy-like attractive flowers, the flowers and their plants may be visited or used by butterflies, moths, flies, honeybees, native bees and other insects in search of nectar, food or shelter and protection.
Etymology:
The genus “Thymophylla” (Thymophyl'la:) is from the Greek thymos, "thyme," and phyllon, "leaf," meaning "thyme-leaved." The genus Thymophylla was published in 1816 by Mariano Lagasca y Segura, (1776-1839).
The genus Thymophylla was previously included in the larger genus Dyssodia, which was published in 1801 by Antonio José (Joseph) Cavanilles, (1745-1804).
The genus “Dyssodia” (Dysso'dia:) is from the Greek dysodia for "a disagreeable odor."
The species epithet “acerosa” (acero'sa:) means sharp, or with stiff needles.
Ethnobotany
Pricklyleaf Dogweed, Thymophylla acerosa is used as a body bath for fevers and mixed with tobacco by southwestern United States indigenous peoples.
Isleta Drug, Febrifuge; Decoction of leaves used as a body bath for fevers.
Keres, Western Other, Smoke Plant; Leaves mixed with tobacco for the flavor.
See complete listing of ethno-botanical uses at Native American Ethnobotany, University of Michigan, Dearborn.
