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Seedbox

How to identify Seedbox (Ludwigia alternifolia)

Seedbox, also known as Bushy water primrose

The seedbox is characterized by its alternately arranged leaves and a preference for acidic, sandy, moist to wet soils. In summer, it produces delicate yellow flowers that bloom briefly, typically lasting less than a day, adding ephemeral splashes of color to wetland areas. Following the flowering period, distinctive seed capsules develop, which are squarish in shape and produce a rattling sound when shaken. The plant is notably pollinated by bees, which are attracted to its blossoms. It thrives in the heat and is suitable for planting in rain or water gardens, or along the edges of streams and lakes.

Lifespan

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type

Plant Type: Herb

Leaf Type

Leaf Type: Deciduous

Quickly Identify Seedbox

1

Vibrant yellow 1/2 to 3/4 inch flowers with four prominent petals and green sepals.

2

Distinctive squarish 1/4 inch seed capsules that rattle when shaken, containing numerous tiny seeds.

3

Vivid dark green lance-shaped leaves measuring 2-4 inches long and 1/2-3/4 inch wide.

4

Smooth, reddish stem, 0.1 to 0.3 inches thick, with alternating branching pattern.

5

Prefers acidic, sandy, moist to wet soils, attracting bees for pollination in wetland areas.

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Detailed Traits of Seedbox

Leaf Features

Seedbox has dark green, lance-shaped leaves that measure 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) long and 1/2-3/4 inch (1.3-1.9 cm) wide. The leaves are sharply pointed at the tip and are arranged alternately along the stem. They exhibit a smooth texture with a central vein that is prominent, and the leaf surface is flat and slightly glossy. The margins of the leaves are entire, contributing to their streamlined appearance.

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Flower Features

The flowers of seedbox are 1/2 to 3/4 inch (1.3 to 1.9 cm) in size, featuring four prominent yellow petals that can drop quickly after opening, leaving behind four green sepals of equal length to the petals. These flowers are borne on short stalks in the leaf axils. Blooming from May to October, the vibrant yellow petals of seedbox offer a striking contrast before they shed, making the plant readily identifiable during its flowering period.

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Stem Features

The stem of seedbox is frequently reddish, offering a vibrant identifier. It is typically smooth to the touch and cylindrical in shape. The thickness ranges from 0.1 to 0.3 inches (2 to 7 mm), supporting a stable structure. Branching occurs in an alternating pattern along the stem, giving it a distinctive appearance. The stem is relatively flexible but sturdy, showing minimal woodiness, which aids in its identification in the wild.

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Fruit Features

The fruit of seedbox is distinguished by its small, squarish seed pods, each roughly 1/4 inch in size. Enclosed within these pods, which are available from June to November, are numerous tiny seeds. These characteristic seed pods exhibit a typical green to brownish hue as they mature, with a slightly rough texture to the touch. The abundance of seeds contained within the pods suggests a potential for prolific reproduction, each waiting to continue the lifecycle of seedbox.

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Key Facts About Seedbox

Attributes of Seedbox
Lifespan
Perennial
Plant Type
Herb
Flower Size
2.5 cm
Flower Color
Yellow
Gold
Fruit Color
Brown
Red
Copper
Burgundy
Cream
Tan
Stem Color
Green
Red
Burgundy
Leaf type
Deciduous
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Scientific Classification of Seedbox

Species
Seedbox (Ludwigia alternifolia)
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Distribution Map of Seedbox

Seedbox is a plant native to eastern North America. Its range has since expanded, with introductions in other continental regions. Notably, the species has established itself in parts of Europe, where it is considered introduced, showing adaptability to climates beyond its original habitat, yet information regarding its pervasiveness is limited.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Potentially invasive
Exotic
No species reported
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