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Herbs with strong odor, (0.2–)0.4–3(–5) m, root sometimes fleshy. Stems ± lignified, usually 1–2(–4)-winged, turning dark when dry. Leaves: petiole shorter than blade; blade ovate-rhombic to suborbicu­late, 1.5–4(–6) × 1.5–4(–5) cm, fleshy. Pedicels pendent, slender. Flowers: calyx 2–3.5 mm, incised nearly to base; corolla 3.5–10 mm, inside with dense, wooly, annular band of hairs; stamens not exserted, connivent. Berries pale yellowish white, nearly translucent. 2n = 24.

Phenology: Flowering Mar–Jul.
Habitat: Cultivated fields, waste ground.
Elevation: 0–2000 m.

Distribution

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Introduced; Ala., Ariz., Calif., Fla., Ga., La., Miss., N.C., S.C., Tex., Va., South America (Argentina, se Bolivia, s Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay), introduced also in w, s Europe (England, France, Italy, Portugal, Spain), Africa (Algeria, Egypt), Australia.

Discussion

Salpichroa origanifolia can escape cultivation and persist for short periods. The rhizomes are a source of alkaloids (W. C. Evans et al. 1972), and whole plants (growing in Argentina) are a source of withanolides.

Selected References

None.

Lower Taxa

None.