Lesser Joyweed

Family: Amaranthaceae
Scientific name: Alternanthera denticulata
Description: Plant Form: Annual spreading or erect herb. Size: Up to 40 cm wide or tall. Stem: Wiry. Smooth or slightly hairy. Brown or reddish. Able to take root at nodes. Leaves: Oppositely arranged, flat, linear, 2-6 cm long. Smooth or finely toothed edges. Flowers: Tiny, whitish, in large oblong clusters at the base of leaves. Fruit and Seeds: Tiny, heart shaped. Do not open to release seeds. Habitat: Native to all Australian states and territories. Riparian areas, swamps, woodlands, grasslands. Distinguishing Features: Distinguished from non-native Khaki weed (Alternanthera pungens) by narrower leaves and less hairy stems. Is much smaller and has narrower leaves than invasive Alligator weed (Alternanthera philoxeroides). Weed Status: Non-weedy native lookalike Weed Type: Lifeform: Herbaceous

Example images for this weed