Dysphania

Dysphania is a genus of flowering plants in the family Amaranthaceae. The genus was established by the German botanist Friedrich Anton Wilhelm Miquel in 1849. Plants in this genus are typically annuals or perennials, and they are found in various habitats across the globe, including arid regions, grasslands, and disturbed areas.

Species within Dysphania are characterized by their small, often inconspicuous flowers arranged in terminal or axillary inflorescences. The leaves are usually alternate and can be simple or lobed, with a range of textures from smooth to glandular. Many species are known for their pungent or aromatic scent, a characteristic that has led to some historical uses in traditional medicine or as herbs.

The genus includes a number of species that were previously classified under other genera, such as Chenopodium. Taxonomic revisions have led to the consolidation of these species into Dysphania. Common examples of species within this genus include Dysphania ambrosioides, commonly known as epazote or Mexican tea, and Dysphania bonus-henricus, known as good-king-henry. These plants can vary in their ecological roles, with some being considered weeds while others have specific uses. The genus is widespread, with representatives found in Europe, Asia, Africa, the Americas, and Australia.