Iva axillaris – “Povertyweed”

Also Known As: Poverty Sumpweed, Deathweed, Devil’s Weed, Small-Flowered Marsh Elder, Salt-Sage, Bozzleweed
Other Botanical Names: Iva axillaris subsp. robustior
Family: Sunflower (Asteraceae)
Bloom Period: Apr-Oct
Form: Perennial herb
Habitat: Moist places; tolerates salty soils
Leaves: Elliptical to obovate, upwardly-reflexed; alternate
Translation: “Iva” refers to another plant, Ajuga iva (a type of Bugleweed), which gives off a similar scent; “axillaris” refers to the flower’s position at the angle where the leaf meets the stem, which is called the “axil.”
Notes: Called “Povertyweed” because it tolerates poor, salty soils, and known as “Deathweed” and “Devil’s Weed” because it an enthusiastic grower that crowds out other plants. The meaning or etymology of “Bozzle” is a mystery. Interestingly, each flower-head has separate male and female flowers inside it.
Native American Uses: The Mahuna used it as a contraceptive and abortifacient. The Paiute treated sores and skin issues with the leaves, applying an infusion or plaster of the leaves topically. The Shoshone used the plant for stomachaches, diarrhea, and colds, especially for children.
Animal Associations: Nectar source for the Great Purple Hairstreak butterfly.