Wild quinine (Parthenium integrifolium) par-THEN-ee-um in-teg-rih-FOE-lee-um Genus:  Parthenium Wild quinine bears lustrous foliage and long-lasting white flowers throughout the season, even in heat and drought. It is native to moist prairies, low meadows, and open woods from Massachusetts and Minnesota, south to Georgia and Arkansas. Noteworthy Characteristics:  Good substitute for Achillea in moist soils. Use as a specimen or filler. Charcoal-gray seed heads can be used in arrangements. Care:  Adaptable, but thrives in moist, deep, rich soil in full sun or light shade. Propagation:  Sow seeds in winter or spring after giving them four to six weeks of cold, moist conditions. Seedlings develop slowly the first year while they establish their tap roots. Plants reach blooming size in two to three years. Can also be propagated from stem cuttings in early June. Problems:  Nothing serious.

Overview

Height 1 ft. to 3 ft. Spread 1 ft. to 3 ft. Growth Habit Clumps Growth Pace Moderate Grower Light Full Sun Only Moisture Dry to Medium Maintenance Low Characteristics Fragrant Foliage, Native, Showy Flowers Bloom Time Summer Flower Color White Uses Beds and Borders, Cut Flower, Dried Flower, Meadow Garden Style Cottage Garden Seasonal Interest Summer Interest Tolerance Drought Tolerant Type Perennials