Lead tolerance, accumulation and translocation in two Asteraceae plants: Limbarda crithmoides and Helianthus annuus

•Limbarda crithmoides L. and helianthus annuus L. plants morphology has not been affected under effect of lead (Pb) with the exception of height reduction in some Pb applied concentrations.•According to the metal tolerance index, limbarda crithmoides was more tolerant to Pb induced stress than helianthus annuus.•High levels of Pb were detected in the above-ground parts.•The concentrations of the accumulated Pb were higher in the roots of limbarda crithmoides and helianthus than in the shoots of these species.