Ludwigia octovalvis (Jacq.) P.H.Raven

Nomenclature and Classification

Ludwigia octovalvis (Jacq.) P.H.Raven is a species of flowering plant in the Onagraceae family, commonly called Mexican primrose-willow.

Native and Naturalized Distribution

Its exact native distribution is unclear, but it occurs naturally or is naturalized in Central America, Australia, South-East Asia, Tamil Nadu (India), the Middle East, and Central-West African regions.

Dispersal and Cultivation

It spreads easily to become naturalized in new areas, and is also cultivated as an aquatic plant.

Human Use Property

This plant is known to have anti-aging properties.

Invasive Status and Conservation Classification

It is sometimes considered an invasive species, and the International Union for Conservation of Nature classifies it as a species of least concern with stable populations.

Mature Height

On average, mature individuals reach one meter in height, though they can grow taller.

Growth Habit

Ludwigia octovalvis spreads to form mats on mud, rooting at nodes that come into contact with the substrate, or grows as an ascending floating plant in water.

Stem and Flower Characteristics

It has green and red stems, and produces yellow flowers.

Fruit and Seed Traits

Its fruits are small capsules that hold many minute seeds.