Fauna
Flower · GBIF taxon 3132617

Marsh Fleabane

Pluchea odorata

Also known as Sweetscent, Saltmarsh Fleabane, Shrubby Camphorweed

Marsh fleabane thrives in wet, sun-drenched soils, filling tidal marshes, drainage ditches, and wetland edges across warm-temperate and tropical coastal zones. Crushing any part of the plant releases an intense, camphor-like scent derived from essential oils that deter generalist herbivores. Flat-topped clusters of pinkish-purple flowerheads bloom abundantly from summer through autumn, providing a critical nectar reservoir for native pollinators.

AromaticWetlandFlowering
Marsh Fleabane reference1 / 7
Licensed reference(c) Dairon Cuevas Riveras, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA) · cc-by-sa
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Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & prey
  • Photoautotrophic
ThreatsWetland draining, coastal development, and aggressive non-native plant invasions
HabitatsSalt marshes, brackish wetlands, mangrove edges, wet prairies, and ditch margins
Life span1–3 years
Classification
  1. OrderAsterales
  2. FamilyAsteraceae
  3. GenusPluchea
  4. SpeciesPluchea odorata
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskLow
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is low
Safe to observe at a normal distance.
Responsible observation
  • Leaf Aroma: Gently rub a leaf between your fingers to experience its distinctive camphor fragrance without damaging the stem.
  • Wetland Footing: Stay on established boardwalks and paths when exploring marshes to avoid damaging sensitive root networks.
Related species
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