Distribution
It is a common invasive species in India, Australia, and parts of Africa. "P. hysterophorus" invades all disturbed land, including farms pastures, and roadsides. In some areas, outbreaks have been of almost epidemic proportions, affecting crop production, livestock and human health. In India, it is locally known as "carrot grass" "Congress Grass" or "Gajar Ghans". It was first present as a contaminant in imported wheat. It can trigger allergies and is a common cause of pollen allergy.
Defense
Contact with this plant causes dermatitis and respiratory malfunction in humans, dermatitis in cattle and domestic animals, due to the presence of toxin parthenin....hieroglyph snipped... The presence of "Parthenium" pollen grains inhibits fruit set in tomato, brinjal, beans, etc., and is also responsible for bitter milk disease in livestock fed on grass mixed with its leaves.References:
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