Mericis

Mericis is a genus of plants in the family Asteraceae. The genus was described by Carl Linnaeus in 1753 and is native to South America. Plants in the genus Mericis are typically herbaceous perennials with alternate, toothed leaves. The flowers are borne in capitula, which are heads of small florets, and are typically white, yellow, or pink. The fruit is an achene.

The genus Mericis contains a single species, Mericis australis. This species is found in Argentina, Chile, and Uruguay. It grows in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, open woodlands, and disturbed areas. Mericis australis is a common and widespread plant in its native range.

Mericis has been used in traditional medicine by indigenous peoples of South America. The plant has been used to treat a variety of ailments, including wounds, burns, and digestive problems. However, there is limited scientific evidence to support these traditional uses.

The taxonomy of the genus Mericis has been subject to some debate. Some botanists have placed Mericis in the tribe Astereae, while others have placed it in the tribe Anthemideae. Recent phylogenetic studies have supported the placement of Mericis in the tribe Astereae.

Mericis is not widely cultivated, but it is sometimes used as an ornamental plant in botanical gardens. The plant is relatively easy to grow and can be propagated by seed or by division.