Laukaisia

Laukaisia is a genus of flowering plants in the family Asteraceae, commonly known as the daisy family. The genus is native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas. Plants in the genus Laukaisia are typically herbaceous perennials, though some species can be annuals or shrubs. They are characterized by their solitary or clustered flower heads, which usually have white ray florets and yellow disk florets. The leaves are generally simple and alternate along the stem.

The exact number of species within Laukaisia is subject to ongoing taxonomic revision, but it is generally considered to contain a small number of species. These plants often thrive in open, sunny environments, including grasslands, savannas, and disturbed areas. Their reproductive strategy involves the production of numerous small seeds that are dispersed by wind or animals.

While Laukaisia species are not widely cultivated for ornamental purposes, some have traditional uses in their native regions, though these are not extensively documented. Their ecological role primarily involves contributing to local biodiversity and providing a food source for certain insects. The genus is not considered to be of major economic importance, but it forms part of the diverse flora of its native habitats. Further research is ongoing to fully understand the taxonomy, distribution, and ecological significance of Laukaisia.