East Indian Globe Thistle

Sphaeranthus africanus is a member of the Asteraceae family, a large and diverse group of flowering plants. It is found in various habitats across its native range, which includes parts of Africa, Asia, and the Indian Ocean islands. The species is documented in regions such as Kenya, Vietnam, Singapore, and the Philippines. Its presence in both tropical and subtropical climates suggests a degree of adaptability. The species name 'africanus' may reflect its historical association with African regions, though it is now known to occur more widely. This species is part of the genus Sphaeranthus, which includes other thistle-like plants with similar ecological and morphological traits.