Long-stalked Phyllanthus (Note: This is actually a broadleaf weed, specifically Leafflower/Chamberbitter)
Phyllanthus urinaria · Warm-season Broadleaf Weed (Not a true grass)
Grass Family
Euphorbiaceae (Spurge family)
Grass Category
Invasive/Weed Weed
Variety / Cultivar
Wild type
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 8 through 11, acting as a warm-season annual weed in temperate zones.
About This Grass
An upright summer annual weed that resembles a small mimosa tree or fern due to its alternate, finely divided compound leaves arranged oppositely along vertical stems. Reaches 1 to 2 feet in height with small yellowish-green flowers and seed capsules hanging underneath the leaves.
Blade Characteristics
Not a grass; has compound leaves consisting of many small, oblong, oval leaflets arranged in a single flat plane along stem branches. Smooth margins and pale undersides.
Root System
Strong, fibrous taproot system that allows the plant to anchor deeply and resist pulling when mature.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to tropical Asia, widely naturalized globally in warm regions
Growth Habit
Upright, branching annual broadleaf weed with a strong taproot
Sunlight & Water Needs
Thrives in full sun to partial shade; highly adaptable to moist or well-drained soils, often found in irrigated landscapes, gardens, and thin turf areas.
Mowing & Maintenance
Resistant to low mowing by producing seed heads close to the ground; hand pulling or selective broadleaf herbicides are required for control.
Special Characteristics
Prolific seed producer; the seed capsules hang directly underneath the stems, giving it the common name chamberbitter. Extremely difficult to control once established due to massive seed dispersal.
Ecological Information
Introduced invasive weed species in North America. Provides little ecological value in managed landscapes and competes aggressively with desirable turfgrass and garden plants.