Florida Tasselflower, an introduced species, has been added to the USWildflowers database (02/08/2012.) Scientific name is Emilia fosbergii. Photo below was taken in Sarasota County, FL, on December 18, 2011. It is also known by the common name Flora’s Paintbrush. Go to the Florida Tasselflower detail page for more photos and information.
Florida Tasselflower, Flora's Paintbrush, Florida Tassel Flower - Emilia fosbergii
I discovered this plant in my flower bed two years ago. I live in Gentilly, New Orleans.
Thanks for the visit and for the information, Elizabeth!
Curious if anyone knows this Emelia lilac colored has any medicinal purposes! I got a bunch growing after finding one plant last year. Looks similar to wild lettuce. Found this one here in Hawaii.