The Pesky Plant Pest With an Unusual Name

A name can be a defining aspect of an identity. It can portray a variety of characteristics, both real and imagined, for the holder.

In addition to family identities, the name can project strength and honor for the owner. Noted historical figures of times past can contribute to the evoked image.

Many Hollywood stars-to-be have relabeled themselves with monikers which allegedly project the image they wish to extend to the movie going public. John Wayne may not have had quite the same success if he had used his real name, Marion Morrison.

Likewise, some names conjure up negative recollections of undesirable deeds and traits.  The given names Adolph and Delilah are understandably not currently popular because of acts of previous holders. 

Sometime names make little to no sense to contemporary Florida residents, which leaves one to wonder why this particular identifier. The plant species Rustweed, which is actively growing in the region, fits into this category.

The greenery with a curious name, and which is considered a pest, is known scientifically as Polypremum procumbens. While it does not literally rust, it gets its name from its rust-colored foliage in the autumn.

Rustweed is an aggressive native plant which grows well in lawns and pastures. It is currently blooming, but the tiny blooms are often overlooked.

In spring and summer, this low growing perennial is green and easily blends with Bermudagrass and other turfs.  The tiny white blooms currently on display will confirm its presence, but this characteristic is often overlooked when in landscapes.

This plant spreads by seeds which are quite small and heart-shaped.  One means of colonizing new areas is by seeds lodging in mowing and other equipment, then depositing in new areas when the equipment is relocated.

As with all grasses in north Florida, Rustweed is found only in sunny areas. This little known plant is an area native, but also occurs as far away as South America.

This aggressive native will quickly establish itself and push out other more desirable species.  Mowing will not slow its progress.

There are others such as tropical soda apple, dog fennel and purple nut sedge with curious names having some relationship to their contact with humans.

Tropical soda apple, also known as TSA, is an exotic invasive. It has apple-shaped fruit and originates in the tropics.

Dog fennel is a native plant which has an appearance vaguely similar to the herb fennel. It was once used as a means of flea and tick suppression when used as dog bedding.

This tall weed has a bushy appearance, and is commonly seen on fencerows and in fallow fields. It is one of the last plants which bloom in the fall, with small snowy white blossoms at the top of its stalks.

Purple nut sedge is another invasive plant, and is a sedge. It has a purple tinged stem next to the soil and produces nutlets aggressively.

Obscure as they may be, these common names do denote some perspective of specific activity or use. At least it is not Rustworts and Spiderweed, which invoke entirely different images.