Amaranthaceae

Alternanthera denticulata

Common Names: Lesser Joyweed

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. Impacts: Note - native plant.