SafePlants

Russian Pigweed (Axyris amaranthoides)

Axyris amaranthoides, commonly known as Russian pigweed and upright axyris, is an annual plant belonging to the Amaranthaceae family. The Chinese name for this plant is zhouli (&#36724&#34268 ).

Considerations for Pets

• The plant propagates by seeds.

Considerations for Children

• The plant propagates by seeds.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Axyris amaranthoides L.
• Common Names: Russian pigweed, upright axyris
• Family: Amaranthaceae (formerly Chenopodiaceae)
• Kingdom: Plantae
• Taxonomic Rank: Species
• Synonyms: None explicitly mentioned, but note that the plant was formerly classified in the Chenopodiaceae family.

Distribution and Habitat

• Russian pigweed is native to Asia.
• It is adventive (introduced) in North America, specifically in Canada and the United States.
• It is found in Manitoba, Minnesota, and the Dakotas.
• Its habitat includes grain fields and disturbed areas.

Ecological Role

• Russian pigweed is considered an invasive crop weed, particularly in grain crops.

Morphological Characteristics

• It is an annual spring weed.
• The plant typically grows to a height of 15-80 cm (approximately 6 inches to 2.6 feet), but can reach up to 4 feet (12 dm).
• It has inconspicuous flowers.

Genetic Information

• The chromosome number (2n) for Axyris amaranthoides is 18.

Quirky Facts

• Historical farm weed prints of Russian Pigweed dating back to the early 1900s exist, indicating its long-standing presence and recognition as a common agricultural weed.

Further Information

• USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database
• T.S. Bakshi Herbarium
• Discover Life