Yellow Joyweed
Alternanthera flavescens
- Native to:
- Argentina, Belize, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Leeward Is., Mexico, Paraguay, Peru, Puerto Rico, United States, Venezuela, Virgin Islands, Windward Is.
iNaturalist: © coreytcallaghan (iNaturalist #236393986)
Taxonomy
- Division:
- Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
- Family:
- Amaranthaceae
- Genus:
- Alternanthera
- Species:
- Alternanthera flavescens
- USDA Symbol:
- ALFL
Growth Characteristics
- Life Cycle:
- Perennial
- Growth Habit:
- Forb/herb , Subshrub
- Height:
- 60 cm
- Light Requirements:
- Full Sun
- Drought Tolerance:
- High
- Bloom Months:
- jan,feb,mar,apr,may,jun,jul,aug,sep,oct,nov,dec
- Bloom Colors:
- white
- Ground Cover:
- Yes
- Lawn Substitute:
- Yes
Wildlife Benefits
- Butterflies & Moths:
- ★☆☆☆☆ Documented Lepidoptera association (GBIF)
- Caterpillars:
- ★☆☆☆☆ Recorded caterpillar host plant (HOSTS Database)
Host Plant for Caterpillars
Divitiaca parvulella, Hayhurst's scallopwing (Staphylus hayhurstii)
Garden & Ecology Notes
- Deer Resistant:
- Yes
- Salt Tolerant:
- Yes
Soil Requirements
- Soil Type:
- rich, well-drained loamy soil
- pH:
- 5.5 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Drainage:
- excellent drainage required
- Moisture:
- consistently moist
- Notes:
- native to tropical and subtropical regions