SafePlants

Red Spiderling (Boerhavia diffusa)

Red Spiderling, scientifically known as Boerhavia diffusa, is a perennial herb also recognized by several other common names.

Considerations for Pets

• The text mentions that the plant produces small seeds that can be spread by wind or water.
• The plant is a low-growing herb with prostrate stems.

Considerations for Children

• The text mentions that the plant produces small seeds that can be spread by wind or water.
• The plant is a low-growing herb with prostrate stems.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Boerhavia diffusa L.
• Common Names: Red Spiderling, Scarlet Spiderling, Spreading Hogweed, Tar Vine, Wineflower, Erva tosto. It is also known as Punarnava in Ayurveda, meaning "that which rejuvenates or renews the body."
• Family: Nyctaginaceae (Four O'Clock Family)
• Kingdom: Plantae
• Domain: Eukaryota
• Taxonomic Rank: Species
• Synonym: Boerhavia glabrata Blume

Distribution and Habitat

• Red Spiderling is found in warm season regions.
• It commonly grows in disturbed sandy areas and turfgrass.
• The text mentions it is a weed found throughout India.

Morphology and Growth Habits

• Boerhavia diffusa is a perennial herb, growing to approximately 0.1 meters (4 inches) in height and 0.5 meters (1 foot 8 inches) in width.
• It features prostrate stems that radiate from a taproot.
• Leaves are opposite, stalked, and irregularly rounded.
• Flowers are reddish, tiny, and magenta in color, arranged in widely branched, sparse bunches.
• Flowering and seed ripening occur from June to September.
• The plant has an ovary of 0.3-0.5 mm diameter, one-celled with a solitary ovule on a basal placentum. The style is filiform, pale pink, 1.8-2.0 mm long, with a capitate stigma.

Ecological Role

• The plant is noted as a weed.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Boerhavia diffusa is recorded as an alternative host for an unspecified organism (&*!).
• The text mentions an insect being photographed on a red spiderling plant.
• Fruits may be dispersed by birds such as the Sooty Tern.

Further Information

• Dave's Garden is mentioned as a resource for garden tips and ideas.
• GRIN (Germplasm Resources Information Network) is referenced.
• Plants of Hawaii is mentioned in relation to a photo voucher.