Ambrosia trifida, also known as Great Ragweed or Giant Ragweed, is a species of flowering plant in the Asteraceae family. It is native to Texas, and many areas of the United States and Canada, with a wide distribution ranging from Alabama to Wyoming in the US and from Alberta to Saskatchewan in Canada.
This plant has several synonyms, including Ambrosia aptera, Ambrosia trifida var. trifida, Ambrosia trifida var. texana, Ambrosia trifida var. integrifolia, and Ambrosia trifida var. aptera. It is a hardy plant that can be found in a variety of habitats, including fields, roadsides, and waste areas. Despite its common name, Great Ragweed is not typically considered a desirable plant due to its potential to cause allergies and other negative impacts on human health.
In This Article
Ambrosia trifida Information
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Common Names | Great Ragweed, Giant Ragweed |
| Synonyms | Ambrosia aptera, Ambrosia trifida var. trifida, Ambrosia trifida var. texana, Ambrosia trifida var. integrifolia. Ambrosia trifida var. aptera |
| Native to USA | AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY |
| Native to Canada | AB, MB, NB, NS, ON, PE, QC, SK |
| Size | 10 to 12 feet |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ambrosia Trifida edible?
Ambrosia trifida is not edible. It is considered a weed and can cause allergies in humans plus an upset stomach.
How do I identify Ambrosia trifida?
You can identify Ambrosia trifida by its large, rough, and hairy leaves that are arranged opposite on the stem. It also has small, greenish flowers that grow in clusters and produce large, winged seeds. It usually grows to about 10 feet tall and is commonly found in fields, along roadsides, and in other disturbed areas.