Centratherum is a small genus of flowering plants in the family Asteraceae (order Asterales). Commonly called Brazilian button or lark daisy, it comprises three accepted species of herbaceous perennials native to tropical South America. The most widespread species, Centratherum punctatum, bears purple button-like flower heads and has been introduced to Central America, tropical Africa, tropical Asia, and Australia, where it is considered invasive on several tropical islands including Hawaii, the Galapagos, New Caledonia, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands. The other two species — C. cardenasii and C. repens — have more restricted ranges in Bolivia and Brazil respectively.
Distribution
Centratherum is native to tropical South America, with all three accepted species occurring within the region. Centratherum punctatum ranges from Venezuela to northern Argentina and has been widely introduced beyond its native range into Central America, tropical Africa, tropical Asia, and Australia. It is considered invasive on several tropical islands including Hawaii (USA), the Galapagos Islands, New Caledonia, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands.
Ecology
Centratherum punctatum behaves as a pioneer species in disturbed habitats across the tropics, readily naturalising beyond its native range. Its invasive status on multiple oceanic islands — Hawaii, the Galapagos, New Caledonia, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands — indicates high dispersal ability and ecological flexibility in tropical climates.
