Saw-Wort

Serratula tinctoria

ser-RAT-you-la  tink-TOR-ee-ah

Asteraceae

Native to: Europe

Abundance and Distribution: Most famous for its abundance in southern England, and in the U.S. primarily in northeastern states, but as with so many other weedy and quick-growing plants, it is expanding its range. Probably not in Florida, but an interesting species.  Moist soil with full to part sun.

Recognition:  A meter in height and with wiry grooved stems.  The divided leaves tear shaped and bristle-toothed.  Having large explosions of florets very thistle-like in shape and color. This species has a large following of gardening enthusiasts that spread it in open meadows where it is quite polite and does not become invasive. 

Potentially confused species: Easily confused with C. crupinastrum (commonly called False Saw-wort) and C. vulgaris because of the similar flower shapes.

Note: Saw-wort has been cultivated as a yellow dye—and in helping injuries to heal. In Mediaeval times the saw-toothed shape of the leaves indicated that God had sent it to be used to heal.  It still enjoys a reputation as a good yellow dye. A special kind of bee—with a particularly long tongue—serves as pollinator and drinks the nectar.  It is often a subject for water colorists and horticultural prints.  Etchings and painted studies of the plant were plentiful, actual photographs, harder to find.

Contributed by: Carolyn Hendry