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dove weed

Scientific Name: Croton setigerus

Family: Euphorbiaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Annual

Other Names:

       

Doveweed: Understanding This Common Weed

Doveweed refers to several different plant species, each with its own characteristics and ecological role. This page will explore some of the plants commonly known as Doveweed.

Murdannia nudiflora (L.) Brenan: Naked Stem Dewflower

Murdannia nudiflora, also known as Doveweed or Naked Stem Dewflower, is a summer annual weed that can quickly invade warm-season turfgrass, especially in residential lawns. It prefers moist areas and often germinates later in the growing season than other summer annual weeds.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature:
  • Scientific Name: Murdannia nudiflora (L.) Brenan
  • Common Names: Doveweed, Naked Stem Dewflower
  • Family: Commelinaceae
  • Taxonomic Rank: Species
Distribution and Habitat:
  • This species is considered one of the world's worst weeds, infesting numerous crops across many countries.
  • It is prevalent in the Southeastern United States and particularly affects Florida.
Ecological Role:
  • Murdannia nudiflora is an aggressive, naturalized summer annual weed.
Morphological Characteristics:
  • Murdannia nudiflora has fleshy, creeping stems and a somewhat grass-like appearance.
  • The leaves have parallel veins and short leaf sheaths.
  • It is an annual or perennial herb, typically 8-115 cm tall, featuring creeping leafy branches.
Interactions with Other Organisms:
  • This weed can be controlled by herbicides like Atrazine.
Quirky Facts:
  • In India, doveweed is considered a famine food, while the Chinese use the young shoots as a food source.

Croton setigerus Hook.: Turkey Mullein

Another plant known as Doveweed is Croton setigerus, also called Turkey Mullein. This species is native to western North America.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature:
  • Scientific Name: Croton setigerus Hook.
  • Common Names: Doveweed, Turkey Mullein
Morphological Characteristics:
  • It is a grayish to light green, low-spreading, heavily scented annual.
Interactions with Other Organisms:
  • The plant's foliage is considered toxic, leading Native Americans to use it to stupefy fish.
  • It is a favorite food source for doves and other game birds.