What is inula viscosa?

Inula viscosa is a species of flowering plant in the daisy family, Asteraceae, native to the Mediterranean Basin and the Middle East. It is commonly known as sticky inula or Dittrichia viscosa.

Inula viscosa is a perennial shrub that grows up to a height of 2 meters. The leaves are lance-shaped, green, and covered with a sticky resinous secretion that repels herbivores. The flowers are yellow and resemble those of other daisy family plants. They bloom in the summer and attract a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies.

Inula viscosa has a wide range of medicinal properties and has been used for centuries in traditional medicine. It is known to have antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties, and has been used to treat a variety of conditions, including respiratory problems, wounds, and skin disorders.

Inula viscosa is also cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks due to its attractive foliage and bright yellow flowers. It is drought-resistant and able to grow in a variety of soil types, making it a popular choice for landscaping in hot, dry climates.

Despite its many benefits, Inula viscosa can also be invasive in certain areas and is considered a noxious weed in some countries, including Australia and parts of the United States. In such areas, efforts are made to control its growth and prevent it from spreading.