Common Fleabane (Fleabane)

• Common Name: Common Fleabane (Fleabane)
• Latin Name: Pulicaria dysenterica; syn. Inula dysenteric
• Family Name: Asteraceae

Although we can find no research to say that Common Fleabane contains toxic substances, it does contain thymol derivatives that have been shown to act as an insecticide, and we would err on the side of caution and advise that it is best to avoid feeding it to your tortoise (although if some leaves or flowers are nibbled in small quantities there is no cause for worry).  The sap and tissues of the plant are said to have a bitter, astringent and salty taste, and most animals do not eat it.

Do not confuse with other plants called Fleabane, such as Seaside Fleabane, Fleabane Daisy, or Canadian Fleabane.