Mazus pumilus (Burm.fil.) Steenis

Common Name and Taxonomy

Mazus pumilus, commonly known as Japanese mazus, is a species of flowering plant belonging to the Mazaceae family.

Native Distribution

It is native to south and east Asia, where it occurs in Bhutan, China, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Nepal, New Guinea, the Philippines, Russia, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam.

Introduced Range Status

It has been introduced and become an invasive species in North America.

Natural Habitats

Its natural habitats are wet grasslands, streambanks, and trailsides.

Disturbance Tolerance and Anthropogenic Habitats

It is tolerant of human-caused disturbance, and can grow in disturbed areas including cultivated fields, sidewalk cracks, and waste ground.

Population Status in Japan

It is a very common species within Japan.

Growth Form and Size

It is an upright annual plant that grows up to 30 centimetres tall.

Flower Characteristics

Its flowers are purple and white, with yellow spots on the throat.

Flowering Period

It produces flowers throughout the entire growing season.