description White Snakeroot Overview
White snakeroot, Ageratina altissima, is a herbaceous perennial of the aster family native to woodland and woodland-edge habitats in eastern North America. Its white flower clusters are accompanied by a serious toxicological history: the plant contains tremetol-related compounds that can contaminate the milk of livestock that eat it and cause milk sickness in people. The disease has also been associated historically with the death of Nancy Hanks Lincoln.
help White Snakeroot FAQ
What is the scientific name of white snakeroot?
White snakeroot is Ageratina altissima. It is a herbaceous perennial in the aster family.
Where does white snakeroot grow naturally?
White snakeroot is native to eastern North America. It commonly grows in woodland and woodland-edge habitats.
Why is white snakeroot historically dangerous?
The plant contains tremetol-related compounds that can cause serious poisoning. Historically, contaminated milk from animals that ate white snakeroot was associated with milk sickness.
What do the flowers of white snakeroot look like?
White snakeroot produces clusters of small white flowers. The flower clusters appear above a leafy herbaceous perennial rather than on a woody shrub.
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