Next plant on the list is a plant that is native to North America, but is considered a pest in Europe. The Pineapple Weed is also known as Wild Chamomile, and yes, it is related to the Chamomile used as teas, although the flowers looked more like a petal-less chamomile flower.
The name Pineapple Weed came from the fact that the flowers, when crushed, exudes a Pineapple aroma (stronger smell if the flowers are harvested in the morning). The leaves, when crushed, at least to me, smelt like the Chamomile tea sachets that I have in the kitchen.
Just like it's European counterpart, you can make tea with the flowers, and the result is a very mild and relaxing tea. Some people also eat the leaves in their salad, but it is a bit bitter. Of course the flower heads are edible, too.
However, try not to confuse the Pineapple Weed with wild Pinnate-Tansy mustard! The other plant, while edible, too, has a mustardy taste (thus Mustardy Tea). They look very similar when in leaf, as you can see below. Can you tell the difference between a sprig of Pinnate Tansy Mustard and Pineapple Weed?
The name Pineapple Weed came from the fact that the flowers, when crushed, exudes a Pineapple aroma (stronger smell if the flowers are harvested in the morning). The leaves, when crushed, at least to me, smelt like the Chamomile tea sachets that I have in the kitchen.
Just like it's European counterpart, you can make tea with the flowers, and the result is a very mild and relaxing tea. Some people also eat the leaves in their salad, but it is a bit bitter. Of course the flower heads are edible, too.
However, try not to confuse the Pineapple Weed with wild Pinnate-Tansy mustard! The other plant, while edible, too, has a mustardy taste (thus Mustardy Tea). They look very similar when in leaf, as you can see below. Can you tell the difference between a sprig of Pinnate Tansy Mustard and Pineapple Weed?
Look closer, the Pineapple Weed is on the left, and Pinnate Tansy Mustard is on the right. The Pineapple Weed has more "carrot leaves" appearence, while the Mustard leaves has a definite "feathered" and symmetry to it. Of course, the flowers are different. When harvesting or just identifying, crush the leaves between your fingers. Pineapple Weed smells pleasant and fruity, like Pineapple with a hint of citrus, while the Pinnate Tansy Mustard, well, smells like mustard!
Yes, Tansy Mustard is edible, and can be eaten as a potherb, or salad. It's just not good for making teas, LOL.
I found a plant that is very similar, although there are no flowers or buds. The field the mother plant is in is mowed from time to time, so it could be possible the plant is young still. Is it possible this particular plant could be growing in the Piney Woods of Texas (East Texas)?
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