Ageratina altissima
ABOUT
Ageratina altissima, commonly known as white snakeroot, is a perennial herbaceous plant that is known for its distinct appearance. Its leaves are broadly ovate to triangular with coarsely serrated edges, adding a lush, textured look to the plant profile. They are usually deep green in color, providing a rich background for the small, fluffy flower heads. The flowers of white snakeroot bloom in late summer to autumn, forming in clusters that create a fuzzy, cloud-like effect. Each flower head is composed of numerous tiny, white flowers that have a disc-like shape. This creates a striking contrast against the green foliage, making white snakeroot a noticeable and attractive plant when in bloom. The stems of the plant are typically sturdy and upright, branching out to support the leaves and flowers. They can have a slightly reddish or purplish hue that may be more noticeable under certain lighting conditions. The plant often has a bushy appearance, with multiple stems arising from the base to form a dense clump. White snakeroot's distinctive characteristics, particularly its lush foliage and dense clusters of bright white flowers, are what make it recognizable and have contributed to its popularity in various settings, such as gardens and naturalized areas. However, the plant is also known for producing a toxin that can be harmful to livestock and humans if ingested, which is an important consideration in its management and placement.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae.
Synonyms
White Snakeroot, Richweed, White Sanicle, Tall Boneset, Ageratum.
Common names
Eupatorium rugosum, Eupatorium urticifolium, Eupatorium altissimum, Ageratina urticifolia, Ageratum altissimum
ToxicityTo humans
The plant Ageratina altissima, commonly known as white snakeroot, contains a toxic alcohol known as tremetol. When humans ingest parts of this plant, it can lead to a serious condition known as milk sickness, which was more common in the past when people often drank milk from cows that had grazed on the plant. Symptoms of milk sickness include loss of appetite, nausea, weakness, abdominal discomfort, reddened tongue, abnormal acidity of the blood, and possibly death if enough of the toxin is consumed. The severity of the toxicity depends on the quantity ingested and the individual’s sensitivity to the toxin.
To pets
White snakeroot is also toxic to pets, particularly grazing animals such as horses and cattle. Similar to humans, animals that ingest this plant can suffer from tremetol poisoning, which can result in symptoms such as depression, appetite loss, constipation, high pulse rate, breathing difficulties, and even death from heart failure in severe cases. It is crucial for pet owners to prevent their animals from consuming white snakeroot to avoid these potentially serious consequences.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
5 feet (1.5 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.6 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Erosion Control - Ageratina altissima, commonly known as white snakeroot, has a root system that helps stabilize soil and prevent erosion.
- Wildlife Habitat - It provides shelter and breeding grounds for insects and other small wildlife.
- Nectar Source - The plant produces flowers that are a nectar source for bees and butterflies, aiding in pollination.
- Aesthetic Value - The white flowers of white snakeroot can add beauty to naturalized areas and garden settings.
- Low Maintenance - Once established, it requires little care, making it a good choice for low-maintenance landscaping.
Medical Properties- Antiperiodic: Historically used by Native Americans to treat fever.
- Diaphoretic: It has been used to induce sweating.
- Emetic: In traditional practices, it has been used to induce vomiting.
- Purgative: Previously utilized to cleanse the digestive system.
- Stimulant: Considered to stimulate the immune system or other body functions.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Ageratina altissima, commonly known as white snakeroot, can be used in floral arrangements for its small, fluffy white flowers that add texture and a wildflower look to bouquets.
- White snakeroot serves as a food source for various Lepidoptera (butterfly and moth) species, making it a beneficial plant for butterfly gardens.
- The plant can be used in educational settings to teach about the toxic principle tremetol, illustrating the importance of recognizing and preventing livestock poisoning.
- White snakeroot may be used for landscape restoration projects, since it is a native North American species that can help reestablish natural ecosystems.
- In natural dye-making, parts of the plant may yield various shades, contributing to a palette of natural colors.
- Gardeners may plant white snakeroot as a part of a deer-resistant garden, as its toxic properties can deter grazing by deer.
- The species can be used in ecological studies on allelopathy, the chemical inhibition of one species by another, due to its production of chemical compounds that affect surrounding plant growth.
- As white snakeroot is a clonal plant, it can serve as an example in botanical studies on clonal colony growth and reproduction.
- In autumn, the dried flowers and seed heads of Ageratina altissima add visual interest to gardens, providing a different texture after the bloom period.
- White snakeroot can be used in photography and art for its aesthetic qualities, especially in capturing the beauty of native wildflowers.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe White Snakeroot is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe White Snakeroot is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Protection - Ageratina altissima, commonly known as White Snakeroot, is thought to symbolize protection due to its toxic properties that can defend itself from herbivores in the wild.
- Deception or Danger - As a plant with toxic characteristics, White Snakeroot stands as a symbol for hidden dangers or deception, reminding us that not everything that looks innocent is harmless.
- Resilience - This plant can thrive in diverse conditions, symbolizing the ability to endure and prosper through adversity.
WaterThe White Snakeroot should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. It is best to water this plant once a week, providing about 1 to 1.5 inches of water each time, which would roughly translate to about 0.5 to 0.75 gallons for an average-sized plant. During hotter and drier periods, you may need to water more frequently, while in cooler or rainy conditions, less water may be required. It is important to ensure that the soil is well-draining to prevent root rot. Adjust watering accordingly to the plant's response and seasonal changes.
LightFor the White Snakeroot, the ideal lighting condition is partial shade to full shade. This plant thrives under the dappled light of larger trees or on the north side of buildings where direct sunlight is minimal. They can tolerate some morning sun but should be protected from strong afternoon sun to prevent scorching the leaves.
TemperatureWhite Snakeroot prefers cooler temperature conditions and is hardy in USDA zones 4 through 8. The plant can survive minimum temperatures down to about -30 degrees Fahrenheit and can handle up to 90 degrees Fahrenheit, but it thrives best in temperatures between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Ensure that this plant is not exposed to extreme heat for prolonged periods.
PruningPruning White Snakeroot helps maintain its shape, encourage bushier growth, and prevent it from spreading aggressively. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Cut back the plant by about one-third its height. Deadheading, or removing spent flowers, will also promote a tidier appearance and prevent unwanted self-seeding. Best time for major pruning is when the plant is dormant.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for White Snakeroot (Ageratina altissima) should be well-draining with high organic content, like a mix of garden soil, compost, and a small amount of sand or perlite. The soil pH should be moderately acidic to neutral, ranging between 6.0 and 7.0.
RepottingWhite Snakeroot (Ageratina altissima) does not require frequent repotting and can be done every 2-3 years, or when the plant appears to be outgrowing its current pot.
Humidity & MistingWhite Snakeroot (Ageratina altissima) thrives in moderate humidity and does not require particularly high levels, making it suitable for average home humidity conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place White Snakeroot in indirect light and water moderately.
Outdoor
Grow in partial shade, ensure soil is rich and moist.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of the White Snakeroot (Ageratina altissima) begins with seed germination, occurring in the spring when soil temperatures warm. The seedlings develop into rosettes, which are a cluster of leaves at the soil surface, living through their first year in this manner. In its second year, the plant bolts, sending up tall stems that will bear leaves and flowers. Flowering usually takes place in late summer to fall, producing clusters of small, white flowers that are important for pollinators like bees and butterflies. After pollination, seeds are produced, which are dispersed by wind or wildlife, allowing the plant to spread to new areas. The White Snakeroot is perennial, so once it has matured to flowering stage, it can do so annually, with the plant dying back each winter to emerge again in spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to summer
Propogation: White snakeroot, scientifically known as Ageratina altissima, is commonly propagated through seed or division. The most popular method of propagation for White snakeroot is through division in the spring. To propagate by division, dig up a mature plant and carefully separate the root ball into smaller sections, ensuring that each new section has several shoots and a portion of the root system. These divisions should then be replanted at the same depth they were growing previously, spaced approximately 18 to 24 inches (about 45 to 60 centimeters) apart to allow adequate room for growth. Water the newly planted divisions thoroughly to help establish them. This method not only helps to multiply the plants but also rejuvenates older clumps that may have become woody or less vigorous.
