Pineapple weed - Matricaria discoidea

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Edible plant - novice Season - late spring to autumn ​ Common names Pineapple weed, wild chamomile, disc mayweed

Scientific name meaning: The Latin word Matrix, meaning of the womb, is where Matricaria is derived from. This is most likely due to the genus' association with uterine treatments and tonics. The species names Discoidea means without rays. This is in reference to pineapple weed's lack of ray flowers

Habitat

Pineapple weed likes loamy ground, particularly if it is compacted. It is often found at the side of footpaths, driveways, farm gateways, agricultural land and gardens. 

It is a native of Asia but can now be found in Europe and the Americas.

Overall structure

Reaching up to 30cm in height, pineapple weed can have many branches and feathery leaves. It is usually found in groups of many plants.

Leaves

The leaves are pinnate with fine, thin leaflets.

Stem

The cylindrical stem is hairless and often has numerous branches.

Flowers

As a member of the daisy family, pineapple weed has a composite flowerhead - containing many flowers. Unlike other members of the daisy family, which have both disc and ray (petal like) flowers, pineapple weed only has disc flowers giving it the appearance of having no petals. When crushed the flowers smell of tinned pineapple.

Seeds

The seeds look like small grains of rice and are tough enough to survive severe trampling. Each plant can produce several thousands seeds.

​Possible lookalikes

Could be confused with its relatives German chamomile or scentless mayweed (Tripleurospermum inodorum), pictured, before they flower. Neither is poisonous. However, scentless mayweed is scentless and German chamomile doesn’t smell of pineapple.

Use as a food The flowers can be eaten uncooked or in salads. They can also be used to flavour jellies, syrups and cordials. Pineapple weed's leaves and flowers can be used to make a fragrant herbal infusion ​ Use in herbal medicine and medicine Pineapple weed has been used to treat uterine conditions and internal worms, as a sedative and antispasmodic, and to promote lactation

If you are suffering from any ailment or need medical advice, please see your General Practitioner.

Hazards There is some evidence that pineapple weed can cause an allergic reaction in some people. A tolerance test is advised before use​

Other uses None known ​ Importance to other species The smell of pineapple weed tends to repel insects and animals

Always stay safe when foraging. You need to be 100% sure of your identification, 100% sure that your foraged item is edible, and 100% sure that you are not allergic to it (it is good practice to always try a small amount of any new food you are consuming). If in doubt, leave it out!

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