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This species is very common throughout the country except for the higher hills. It is native to tropical Asia, Africa, Australia and New Zealand.
The conservation status of this species is regarded as Least Concerned (National Red List 2012).
The Little Ironweed is a very common species in most open localities and is usually found even along the roads in all the cities including Colombo. The flower of this species can be seen throughout the year and its Sinhala name Monarakudumbiya means the crest of a Peacock due to the resemblance of its flowers. Many species of butterflies are attracted to these flowers.
In Ayurveda medicine the whole plant is used in treating fever, edema, pains, asthma, bronchitis, common cold, indigestion, tonsillitis and skin diseases.
This is a very common flowering plant in Wilpattu and can be found throughout the park.