Khaki Weed
Creeping Chaff-weed
Alternanthera pungens ?
Herbaceous plant growing flat against ground near Eldoret, Kenya, Africa. April 2011.
HERB: Herbaceous plant creeping along the ground. Roots form at soil
contact points giving this weedy plant many footholds.
FLOWERS: The flowers are set within closely packed, brownish, papery scales that harden a
bit and become sharp. Without colorful petals.
LEAVES: Leaves are broadly ellyptic to almost round.
RANGE: This plant is native to tropical America and must have been
introduced along with agricultural plants. Look for it on pastures and in gardens.
FRUIT: Small seeds enclosed singly in each small ovary.
ARMED. The scale-like bracts of the inflorescence are rather
sharp-tipped.