In the field guides Boneset’s leaves are described as perfoliate. Its scientific name says it too: (Eupatorium perfoliatum).
The word comes from Latin.
Per means “through”
Foliate, from folium, means “leaf”
Through the leaf.
(photo by Kate St. John)
Perfoliate
I was confused over this because I have always seen Boneset in my woods, but the leaves were entirely different. I have since learned that there are 24 species in USA. Mine appear to be Eupatorium serotinum.
katydid, I agree! The variety of bonesets is very confusing.
Today, Sept. 21, you cleared up my confusion about Boneset. The plant around my place is the tall Boneset, or White Snakeroot. I too shall call it Snakeroot from now on. Thanks.