SafePlants

Homalocladium platycladum: The Curious Centipede Plant

Homalocladium platycladum, a fascinating plant from the knotweed family, is known by several common names that hint at its unique appearance. These include centipede plant, tapeworm plant, and ribbonbush.

Considerations for Pets

• The plant produces small red fruit.

Considerations for Children

• The plant produces small red fruit.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Homalocladium platycladum (F.J. Muell.) L.H. Bailey
• Family: Polygonaceae (Knotweed family)
• Synonym: Muehlenbeckia platyclada
• The plant has also been mistakenly referred to as a *Muehlenbeckia*

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to New Guinea and the Solomon Islands in the South Pacific.
• Also found in Papua New Guinea.
• Cultivated as an ornamental plant in other tropical areas.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• An upright growing shrub that typically reaches 4 to 8 feet in height but can reach up to 10 feet in its native habitat.
• Characterized by long, flattened stems, also known as cladodes, that resemble tapeworms or ribbons.
• Typically leafless, with leaves only present on the newest growth or, occasionally, a triangular-lanceolate leaf at each node of the stem.
• Stems appear to be jointed.
• Upright to arching growth habit.
• Tiny white flowers are produced at the joints.

Quirky Facts

• Homalocladium platycladum is the only plant in its genus.
• Some find the common name "tapeworm plant" to be rather nauseating.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• The tiny white flowers develop into small red fruit.

Further Information

• Plants of Hawaii (Forest and Kim Starr)
• Dave's Garden
• PLANTS Database

This information is intended for educational purposes only.