Pineapple Weed
Scientific Name: Matricaria discoidea
Category: plant
Brief Description
Pineapple weed is a small, low-growing annual wildflower known for its distinctive pineapple-like scent when crushed and its cone-shaped, petal-less flower heads.
Characteristics
Grows up to 40 cm tall with finely divided, fern-like green leaves. The flower heads are greenish-yellow, conical or button-shaped, and completely lack white ray petals typically found in related chamomile species. Smells strongly of pineapple when the foliage or flowers are crushed.
Habitat
Found in compacted soils, paths, driveways, lawns, and disturbed waste areas.
When to Find It
Blooms from spring through late summer.
Conservation Status
N/A
Ecological Role
Provides nectar and pollen for various small beneficial insects, pollinators, and generalist herbivores.
Easily Confused With
Often confused with Scentless Chamomile or Wild Chamomile, but pineapple weed is easily distinguished by its cone-like flower heads lacking white petals and its sweet pineapple aroma.
Observation Tips
Look along walking paths and compacted soil edges where few other plants survive. Gently crush a leaf between your fingers to confirm the characteristic pineapple scent.
Interesting Facts
The flowers and leaves can be dried and brewed into a soothing herbal tea, similar to chamomile. It is native to northeastern Asia and parts of North America but has naturalized globally in disturbed habitats.