Grindelia, also known as Rosin Weed and Gum Plant, is a plant in the daisy family that is exclusive to the western U.S. As some of the plant’s common names suggest, the herb contains a high resin content that may be as much as 21 percent. Grindelia is not usually prepared as tea because of its bitter flavor, but is more commonly used to make infusions and tinctures for topical use.
Grindelia robusta is native to California and Baja California, where it can be found in a number of habitats. Its range may extend into Nevada.
description Grindelia robusta, a member of the Asteraceae family, is a gangly weedy perennial topping two meters in maximum height. Its erect, branching stems are lined with many stiff, wavy-edged, serrated leaves 2 to 3 cm long. Atop the stem branches are inflorescences of a single large flower head up to 3 cm wide. The head is a vaguely thistle-like cup of green claw-like phyllaries that bend downward. The centre of the head is filled with yellow disc florets and there are usually many yellow ray florets around the circumference. The flower head fills with a copious white exudate, especially during the early stages of blooming.
common names & nomenclature The origin of this plant's scientific name epithet robusta means "robust". The common names like Gumweed, Gumplant, Tarweed and the like are all in reference to the resin that comes from the plant.
Also known as: gumplant, gumweed, tarweed, great valley gumweed, great valley gumplant, grindelia camporum, boton de oro
climate Grindelia is a hardy plant readily grows in disturbed and altered areas such as ditches and roadsides in full sun.
soil Will grow in any well-drained soil, on dry sandy banks and in poor soils.
growing Sow seeds in autumn or spring in a cool greenhouse and only just cover the seed. Transplant the seedlings into individual pots when they are large enough to handle and plant them out into their permanent locations in early summer.
harvesting Harvest the leaves and flowers of grindelia anytime during the season, use fresh or cut into pieces and dry for later use.
preserving Store dried grindelia in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
