Prodigiosa

Brickellia grandiflora BOTANICAL IDENTIFICATION Scientific Name: Brickellia grandiflora (Hook.) Nutt.Common Names: Tassel Flower, Large-Flowered Brickellbush, HomalocephalaFamily: Asteraceae (sunflower family) Morphology:Perennial herb or subshrub (0.5–1.5 m tall) with heart-shaped, serrated leaves (3–8 cm long) covered in glandular hairs. Flowers are creamy-white, tubular, and hang in dense, drooping tassels (hence the name). Roots woody, rhizomatous. Distinctive vanilla-camphor scent when crushed. Habitat & Range:Native to arid regions of the Southwestern U.S. (Arizona, New Mexico) and Northern Mexico. Thrives in rocky slopes, canyons, and pine-oak woodlands at 1,500–3,000 m elevation. Drought-tolerant. Key Adaptations:Glandular trichomes reduce water loss and deter herbivores. Deep roots stabilize in rocky soils. CULTURAL & HISTORICAL USE Indigenous Traditions: Zuni & Navajo: Called "A’mukapɨ" (Zuni); cold infusions for coughs, fevers, and "heavy hearts" (emotional di