PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial sun; tolerates compacted soil and dry, low-nutrient conditions
Watering
Drought-tolerant; water only during prolonged dry spells to maintain growth
Temperature
Thrives in warm temperatures; dies back after the first autumn frost
Characteristics
- Leaf: Flat, linear leaves with hairy margins, 5–15 cm long
- Flower: Branched spike-like inflorescences bearing tiny greenish flowers
- Stem: Prostrate or ascending stems that root at lower nodes
Care Guide
Watering
Water occasionally during extended dry periods; avoid overwatering to prevent excessive spread
Fertilization
Minimal fertilization; avoid high-nitrogen feeds that promote weed growth. For forage use, apply mild organic feeds sparingly to support foliage growth
Compost tea：Use fully composted tea diluted 1:20 to provide mild nutrients without overstimulating aggressive spreadPruning
- Mow regularly to prevent seed head formation and limit spread in lawns
- Pull young plants by hand before stems root at nodes to avoid regrowth
- Apply mulch to garden beds to suppress seed germination
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats
Humans: No known toxic effects on humans
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Occasionally used as forage for livestock; considered a problematic lawn weed in most regions
