Alligator Weed
Alternanthera philoxeroides

Distinguishing Features

Alligator weed is commonly found spread across the surface of a body of water in a sprawling fashion. The stems are pink and hollow.

Flowers

Individual flowers are papery, small, clover-like, spiked flowers that occur at the terminal ends of stems. They are typically white or pale pink. Each flower has 5 stamens and 5 sepals.

Leaves

Leaves grow opposite along the stem. They are lanceolate to ovate, measuring 2.5 to 5cm (1-2”) long. Pinnate venation, with prominent veins running from the base to the tip of each leaf. The leaf margin is entire. Leaves are usually green but can turn reddish or purplish under certain conditions.

Height

This is a sprawling plant, so it does not grow in height. Stems are pink and hollow and can reach lengths of 1 meter (3’). The stem is typically prostrate and can form dense mats on the water's surface. It can protrude up from the water's surface 10 to 20cm (4 to 8").

Habitat

Alligator weed can be found growing along rivers, swamps, lakes, and wetlands. It is rooted to the ground and emerges above the water surface. It can also be found in riparian habitats free-floating in dense mats on the water surface. It grows in still and flowing water.

Edible Parts

Aerial parts are edible but it must be cooked and preferably in small quantities. Newer growth is more tender than older growth. It is imperative that the water and mud in which alligator weed grows must be free of any harmful minerals or heavy metals as this plant gathers and concentrates these toxic compounds.

Other Name

Alligator Grass.

Similar Plants

Mukunuwenna, Wandering Trad.

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