Alternanthera philoxeroides
TAXONOMY
FamilyAmaranthaceae
GenusAlternanthera
Zone9
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Plants of the World OnlineABOUT
Alternanthera philoxeroides, commonly known as Alligator Weed, is a perennial herbaceous plant in the family Amaranthaceae. It is native to South America but has become an invasive species in many parts of the world. It thrives in seasonally dry tropical climates and can grow as a subshrub or helophyte. This plant is known for its ability to form dense mats in aquatic environments, which can disrupt local ecosystems.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Achyranthes Paludosa
Alligator Weed
Alligator-Weed
Celosia Amphibia
Pig Weed
Achyranthes philoxeroides
Alternanthera philoxerina
Alternanthera philoxeroides f. acutifolia
Alternanthera philoxeroides f. angustifolia
Alternanthera philoxeroides var. acutifolia
Alternanthera philoxeroides var. lancifolia
Alternanthera philoxeroides var. luxurians
Alternanthera philoxeroides var. obtusifolia
Alternanthera philoxeroides var. phyllantha
Alternanthera philoxeroides var. platyphylla
Bucholzia philoxeroides
Bucholzia philoxeroides var. acutifolia
Bucholzia philoxeroides var. obtusifolia
Mogiphanes philorexoides
Telanthera philoxeroides
Telanthera philoxeroides var. acutifolia
Telanthera philoxeroides var. denticulata
Telanthera philoxeroides var. linearifolia
Telanthera philoxeroides var. obtusifolia
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterVery Wet
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity80%
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Alligator Weed requires bright, direct sunlight for optimal growth. It thrives in warm temperatures and high humidity. Regular watering is essential to keep the soil consistently wet. This plant can be challenging to manage due to its invasive nature, so regular monitoring and maintenance are necessary.Soil
Alligator Weed prefers loamy soil that is consistently wet or even waterlogged. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot, but the soil should remain moist at all times. It can tolerate a range of soil pH levels but prefers slightly acidic to neutral conditions.Fertilizer
A balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 is suitable for Alligator Weed. Fertilize the plant during the growing season to promote healthy growth. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive growth and potential invasiveness.Repotting
Repotting is generally not necessary for Alligator Weed, as it is typically grown outdoors. However, if grown in a controlled environment, repotting can be done in the spring. Ensure the new container has adequate drainage and use a loamy soil mix.Propagation
Alligator Weed can be propagated through stem cuttings. Take cuttings during the growing season and place them in water or moist soil until roots develop. Once rooted, transplant the cuttings to their desired location.Pruning
Regular pruning is essential to control the growth of Alligator Weed and prevent it from becoming invasive. Prune the plant back to manage its size and remove any dead or damaged stems. Pruning can be done throughout the growing season.Toxicity
Alligator Weed is not known to be toxic to pets or humans. However, its invasive nature can cause ecological harm, so it should be managed carefully to prevent it from spreading uncontrollably.Additional
Due to its invasive potential, it is crucial to monitor Alligator Weed closely and take measures to control its spread. In some regions, it is considered a noxious weed, and its cultivation may be regulated or prohibited.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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