Appearance
"Erechtites hieraciifolius" is an annual herb with alternate, simple leaves, on thick, green stems. The leaves are serrated, and range from unlobed to deeply lobed, with the lobe pattern superficially resembling wild lettuces, which are in the same family but not closely related. When crushed, all parts of the species smell unpleasant. The flower heads are yellow or pink, borne in fall. The heads are followed by cluster of small, wispy achenes. The plant often branches and grows in a clump with multiple stems.
Habitat
This species benefits from fire, and is often one of the earliest pioneer species of areas that have recently burned, hence some of its common names. It prefers moist sites but can handle gravelly soil and some degree of dry conditions. It also grows well in urban areas and around humans.The flowers are pollinated primarily by wasps and honey bees Apis mellifera. The seeds are wind-dispersed, and are used as a minor food source by birds.
;Varieties
⤷ "Erechtites hieraciifolius" var. cacalioides Less. ex Griseb. - Mexico, Central America, West Indies, South America
⤷ "Erechtites hieraciifolius" var. hieraciifolius - North America, West Indies
⤷ "Erechtites hieraciifolius" var. megalocarpus Cronquist - northeastern United States from Massachusetts to New Jersey
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