Matchweed
Common Name:
matchweed
Scientific Name:
Phyla nodiflora
Family:
Verbenaceae
Lifecycle:
Perennial
Features
Stoloniferous perennial. Lanceolate to oblong opposite leaves. Stem stipulate. Stem angular and rigid when rolled between fingers. Inflorescence with a “match-like” seedhead, turning brown to black, 0.2 to 1.5 cm in longitudinal length. Often producing a ring (halo) of small white to pink flowers.
Description
Common in infrequently mowed poor soils in the coastal plain region. Also common in overly wet areas or areas prone to periodic flooding. Does not persist well in high traffic areas.