Pluchea

Pluchea is a genus of flowering plants in the aster family, Asteraceae. These plants are commonly known as camphorweeds or plucheas. They are native to various parts of the world, including North and South America, Africa, Asia, and Australia. Pluchea species are typically herbaceous plants, though some can be shrubby. They are often found in saline or alkaline soils, in habitats such as salt marshes, coastal dunes, and arid regions.

The leaves of Pluchea plants are usually alternate, and can be toothed or entire. The flowers are small and clustered in heads, characteristic of the Asteraceae family. The flower heads are typically purplish, pink, or whitish. Many species have a distinctive camphor-like scent, which is the origin of the common name "camphorweed." This scent is due to the presence of essential oils.

Several Pluchea species have been used in traditional medicine in different cultures for various ailments. Some species are also known to be important for pollinator insects. Due to their tolerance for challenging soil conditions, some Pluchea species are considered weedy in certain regions. The genus contains approximately 50 to 80 species.