Emilia (plant)

Emilia is a genus of flowering plants in the sunflower family, Asteraceae. It is sometimes referred to as the "tasselflower" or "scarlet tasselflower," although these names can be applied to specific species within the genus.

The genus includes a number of species, typically annual or perennial herbs, native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa and Asia, and some are introduced to other parts of the world.

Key characteristics of Emilia plants include:

• Habit: Typically erect herbaceous plants.
• Leaves: Alternate leaves, often variable in shape and size depending on the species and the location on the stem.
• Flowers: The flowers are small and are borne in heads, which are often grouped in corymbs or panicles. The flower heads typically lack ray florets, consisting only of disc florets. Flower color is commonly red, orange, or pink.
• Fruit: The fruit is a cypsela (a dry, single-seeded fruit) often with a pappus of bristles, aiding in wind dispersal.

Some Emilia species are considered weeds in agricultural areas. Others are used in traditional medicine in certain cultures. The genus is sometimes confused with other Asteraceae genera due to the similar appearance of some species. Taxonomic classifications and species included within Emilia have been subject to revision.