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Japanese chaff flower

Scientific Name: Achyranthes japonica var. hachijoensis

Family: Amaranthaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Japanese Chaff Flower (Achyranthes japonica)

The Japanese Chaff Flower, scientifically known as Achyranthes japonica, is a perennial plant belonging to the Amaranthaceae family. It is also commonly referred to as Chaff Flower.

Considerations for Pets

  • The seeds of the Japanese Chaff Flower are known to spread by sticking to animals. This could potentially cause external irritation or discomfort to pets.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Achyranthes japonica (Miq.) Nakai
  • Family: Amaranthaceae
  • Genus: Achyranthes
  • Synonym: Achyranthes bidentata Blume var. japonica Miquel
  • USDA PLANTS Symbol: ACJA

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to eastern and southeastern Asia.
  • It has been introduced to the United States and is tracked in the Eastern United States and has been found in southern Illinois.
  • It can invade a wide variety of habitats, including floodplain forests and riverbanks.

Ecological Role

  • Considered an invasive species.
  • Can form dense populations.
  • Spreads easily and can outcompete native species.

Morphological Characteristics

  • Perennial plant growing up to 1 meter (3ft 3in) in height.
  • Mature stems are 0.75-1.5m (2.5 to 5 feet).
  • Stems are described as smooth to slightly pubescent.
  • Flowers are small, lack petals, and are clustered tightly on the inflorescence at the ends of stems and upper branches.
  • Flowers are hermaphrodite (have both male and female organs).
  • Flowers from July to September, and seeds ripen from September to October.

Traditional Uses

  • The root has been used for pain relief, arthritis, extravasated blood, lumbago, and rheumatism.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • Seeds are spread by animals.
  • Japanese Chaff Flower is sometimes compared to Palmer amaranth (Amaranthus), another invasive species, in studies of plant traits and competitive ability.

Further Information

  • USDA PLANTS Database
  • Invasive Plant Atlas
  • EDDMapS (Early Detection & Distribution Mapping System)
  • ResearchGate (for the fact sheet "Ecology and Control of Japanese Chaff Flower")