Top 20 Most Common Weeds in Gabon

Gabon's equatorial climate, characterized by abundant rainfall and warm temperatures, creates a fertile breeding ground for various garden weeds. Among the most common ones are Goosegrass, Common purslane, and Black nightshade, which often plague local gardens and landscapes. These invasive species can be quite hardy, posing significant challenges to maintainers seeking to preserve native flora and ensure ecological balance.

Most Common Weeds

1. Goosegrass

When there is a famine or a lack of food, the seeds of goosegrass are eaten. This agricultural weed is utilized for cultivated crops, animal feed, and golf courses. It is classified as an environmental weed in various nations. Some Asian countries employ parts of this plant as herbal medicine.

Growth Rate:

Rapid

2. Common purslane

Portulaca oleracea, colloquially known as common purslane, is an annual succulent species with reddish stems and tiny yellow, five-petal flowers. It is used for culinary purposes in various parts of the world, most often raw, in salads. Common purslane is also a good companion plant for crops that thrive in moist soils.

Growth Rate:

Rapid

3. Asthma-plant

Asthma-plant (Euphorbia hirta) is a ground-hugging spurge weed whose branches can grow to 61 cm long. It blooms from summer through early fall, dying off after the first frost. A milky sap will seep from broken stems or leaves. It can be a nuisance weed that reproduces rapidly.

Growth Rate:

Rapid

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4. Black nightshade

Black nightshade (Solanum nigrum) is a highly toxic plant and caution should be exercised around this plant. It's said that black nightshade fruits can technically be consumed if they are fully ripe and properly cooked and prepared. Generally though, due to the danger they present, no one would ever want to try to eat this plant.

5. American black nightshade

American black nightshade (*Solanum americanum*) is a flowering herb with unknown native origins, and it is poisonous. Its berries should not be consumed, as berry consumption has resulted in death in children.

6. Beach morning-glory

Beach morning-glory (Ipomoea imperati) is a species of plant that scatters its seeds in seawater. The seedpod is buoyant and so can be carried away to populate new areas. This is why it’s been found on beaches on every single continent except for frigid Antarctica. Its flowers blossom in the morning and close their petals when afternoon rolls around, giving rise to its common name.

7. Curly dock

Rumex crispus, commonly known as curly dock, is a perennial plant that grows in temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere. It is a very adaptable plant, flourishing in a variety of different habitats including roadsides, the edges of woodlands, meadows, and shorelines. Some moth species like to lay their eggs on curly dock leaves.

Growth Rate:

Moderate

8. Perennial sow thistle

Perennial sow thistle is a plant that is native to Europe, but can be found in many other countries. In nearly all locations where it is found it is classified as an invasive weed due to its capability to spread rapidly and outcompete other native species.

9. Black nightshade

Native to North America, eastern black nightshade is attractive but poisonous. Like many Solanum ptychanthum plants, all green portions of the plant contain the solanum alkaloid, which is highly toxic. Eastern black nightshade is shade-tolerant, so it can often be found growing in the shadow of crops. Bees and some beetles feed on the plant, but most other wildlife avoids it.

10. Hornbeam copperleaf

Hornbeam copperleaf (Acalypha persimilis) is summer annual that grows from 30 to 61 cm tall. It has large leaves and male and female flowers growing on the same bush. Cylindrical spikes with dense masses of tiny white flowers bloom from summer to fall. Female flowers are replaced by seed capsules that open when ripe and are dispersed by wind. This species prefers full sun to partial shade.

11. Water hyacinth

Water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) is a fast-growing flowering plant species with ovular, waxy leaves. Water hyacinth is listed as a federal noxious weed in the United States. This species is invasive to ponds, lakes, rivers and other wetland habitats. It forms dense, floating mats of vegetation that restricts light to underwater environments.

Growth Rate:

Rapid

12. Common dandelion

*Taraxacum officinale*, widely known as common dandelion, is a herbaceous perennial that can be found in temperate regions all over the world, in habitats with moist soils. The most popular feature of this plant is its fruits, furry spheres that are easily carried by the wind. Although it is generally considered a weed, common dandelion is actually edible and very nutritious.

Growth Rate:

Rapid

13. Tarragon

Tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus) is a herb found widely across the Eurasian and North American continents. Tarragon has hints of anise in its fragrance. It is most well known as a culinary herb, especially in French cuisine. It is also used as a popular soda flavoring in eastern Asia. Curiously, the French cultivar with the strongest flavor is sterile, making it much harder to propagate than the other popular variants.

Growth Rate:

Moderate

14. Culantro

Culantro, not to be confused with cilantro or coriander, is a culinary herb with a strong flavor used in dishes across East Asia, Latin America, and the Caribbean. Cultivation is increasing as demand for this herb grows in economies around the world. In tropical areas, this herb can be grown as a perennial, but it will likely only grow as an annual in colder areas.

15. Stinging nettle

Although the stinging nettle has a variety of uses it is best known for its eponymous sting. It has sharp defensive hairs on its leaves and stems which will release pain-inducing chemicals when touched. Nevertheless, Dorset, England hosts an annual World Nettle Eating Championship, which started with a debate between two farmers over the severity of their nettle infestations. To consume them more safely, stinging nettles must be thoroughly boiled.

Growth Rate:

Rapid

16. Graceful spurge

Graceful spurge (Euphorbia hypericifolia) is a perennial flowering bush that blooms all year round. This species grows best in full sunlight or partial shade. Graceful spurge is resistant to rabbits and deer due to its toxic sap. This species is often cultivated as an ornamental plant and grown in containers, hanging baskets and gardens. Gardeners should wear gloves when handling graceful spurge due to its toxic sap.

Growth Rate:

Moderate

17. Blue porterweed

Blue porterweed is native to the Caribbean and considered an invasive species in many areas outside.

18. Spiny amaranth

Spiny amaranth (Amaranthus spinosus) is a plant species native to the lowland American tropics. However, spiny amaranth has spread invasively to tropical regions around the globe. This species is named for the sharp spines at each of its leaf nodes.

19. Dog fennel

Dog fennel is a perennial herb that has finely divided, towering leaves that emit a scent when crushed. Its feathery foliage and clustered flowers sway delicately in the breeze, adding to its decorative appeal. Wind-blown seeds help the plant flourish throughout the field. However, it is dangerous when consumed and has been used as insecticides and fungicides.

Growth Rate:

Rapid

20. Common mallow

Common mallow originates in Eurasia and is considered to be an invasive plant in North America. It can take hold quickly in disturbed soils, generating extensive taproot networks that are hard to eliminate. Its seeds can survive for a long time in the soil. Once the seed coat is broken and exposed to water, it can germinate. With its slightly rounded leaves, it is often mistaken for a geranium weed, but geranium leaves are more deeply-dissected.

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More Plants in Gabon

Most Common Toxic Plants

Gabon's warm, moist climate, rich with equatorial forests and diverse ecosystems, facilitates the proliferation of a variety of flora, including potentially toxic species. Although not exclusively linked to this region, toxic plants such as , , and can be found in Gabon's abundant habitats, posing risks to both local wildlife and human populations. Careful monitoring and plant management are essential to mitigate these natural hazards.

Most Common Flowers

Gabon's lush and diverse environment provides the perfect climate and soil conditions for a variety of native flowers to flourish. Among the most characteristic blooms found in Gabon are , , and . These flowers add to the visual beauty of the region, hold symbolic significance, and play a crucial role in the local ecosystem. Reliable sources validate the presence and importance of these flowers in Gabon's natural landscape.

Most Common Flowers of Spring

As Spring awakens the lush landscapes of Gabon, the environment undergoes a vivid transformation, where , , and blossom profusely. These floral harbingers of Spring not only add a kaleidoscope of colors to the scenery, but each one embodies unique symbolism and plays a crucial role in local ecosystems, marking the season of renewal and growth.

Most Common Spring Fruits

Spring in Gabon bursts with life as rain showers subside to unveil verdant landscapes, perfect for nurturing an array of fruit plants. Amongst the diverse flora, , , and reach their peak, offering fresh and vibrant flavors that are integral to the local cuisine and culture. These fruits, harvested during the most rejuvenating season, symbolize the country's rich natural bounty.

Most Common Fruits

Gabon's equatorial climate with abundant rainfall and rich, well-drained soils provides an ideal environment for the growth of local fruit plants. Among these, , , and are prominent, each deeply ingrained in the country's agricultural practices and cultural traditions. The cultivation of these plants not only sustains local food systems but also underpins economic and social rituals, reflecting the symbiosis between Gabon's people and their verdant landscape.

Most Common Trees

Gabon, known for its tropical rainforests, provides an ideal environment for the growth of native trees. The region's climate and fertile soil support the flourishing of , , and . These trees play a significant role in the ecological balance and cultural heritage of the area. They contribute to biodiversity, provide habitats for numerous species, and are revered by the local communities for their medicinal, spiritual, and economic value. Their preservation is crucial for the overall health and sustainability of Gabon's precious natural resources.

Most Common Tall Trees

Nestled near the equator, Gabon's lush rainforests are nurtured by a humid, tropical climate, fostering diverse life within its extensive river networks and challenging terrains. The region is renowned for its towering arboreal giants, among which , , and stretch skywards, surpassing others in height and splendor. These majestic trees are not only marvels of nature but also crucial to ecological balance and local heritage, firmly rooted in the rich biological tapestry of Gabon.

Most Common Flowers of Winter

Winter in Gabon may bring a serene cold, but it is not devoid of beauty. Despite the frosty environment, certain flowers brave the chill. Among these are , , and . These flowers showcase their resilience and add a touch of color to the winter landscape, reminding us of the enduring beauty that can be found even in the harshest of seasons.

Most Common Plants

In Gabon, you can find Turkey berry, Heart of jesus, Golden trumpet, Pachylobus trimerus, Oyster plant, and more! There are 50 types of plants in total. Be sure to look out for these common plants when you’re walking on the streets, in parks, or public gardens.