American burnweed

American burnweed (Erechtites hieraciifolius) is in the Sunflowers, Daisies, Asters, and Allies family (Asteraceae). Across the U.S., iNaturalist users have logged 1,100 research-grade flowering observations of it in our sample, peaking in September.

Nationally it blooms mainly from August to September, but timing varies a lot by state and elevation — see the table below.

When to photograph American burnweed: observations by month (U.S.)

About American burnweed

Erechtites hieraciifolius (fireweed, American burnweed, or pilewort) is a plant in the daisy family, Asteraceae. It is native to the Americas, but can be found many places around the world having been introduced by human activity. It is introduced in Hawaii, China, and Southeast Asia.From Wikipedia via iNaturalist — article, CC BY-SA.

American burnweed by state

Main season = months with at least 30% of the state's peak-month count.

Related wildflowers (Sunflowers, Daisies, Asters, and Allies)

black-eyed SusanRudbeckia hirta

Common YarrowAchillea millefolium

White SnakerootAgeratina altissima

ChicoryCichorium intybus

Lawn daisyBellis perennis

Philadelphia fleabaneErigeron philadelphicus

Pearly EverlastingAnaphalis margaritacea

Blue MistflowerConoclinium coelestinum

Photography tips

• Photograph flowers on calm, overcast mornings to avoid wind blur and harsh shadows.
• Get low: a shallow depth of field (f/2.8–f/5.6) isolates a bloom against soft color.
• Stay on trails — trampling meadows kills plants and ruins next year's display.
• Try a kaleidoscope abstract of a single bloom with our online kaleidoscope tool.

FAQ