Wild Quinine

The Pearl of the Prairie

Wild Quinine (Parthenium integrifolium) brings a unique look to the native garden. It produces dense, flat-topped clusters of woolly white flowers that look like cauliflower or pearls. These flowers have a stiff, papery texture and last for weeks in mid-summer. The leaves are large, leathery, and sandpaper-rough.

Why You Need It:

• Unique Texture: The white "pearls" stand out against the daisy shapes of other natives.
• Long Lasting: Flowers look good for a month or more and dry beautifully on the plant.
• Toughness: Thrives in heat, humidity, and drought.

Planting Tips:

Plant in Full Sun. It has a massive taproot, making it extremely drought-tolerant but hard to transplant. It is a great structural plant for the middle of a border.