Top 20 Most Common Weeds in Mauritius

Mauritius, with its warm tropical climate and high humidity, provides an almost perfect incubator for a variety of garden weeds. These conditions make managing invasive species like Mexican prickly poppy, Asthma-plant, and Water hyacinth a constant challenge for gardeners. These ubiquitous weeds represent a cross-section of the foliage that competes with cultivated plants, marking them as frequent targets for removal in the battle to maintain healthy and aesthetically pleasing gardens.

Most Common Weeds

1. Mexican prickly poppy

Argemone mexicana has been naturalized in many parts of the world. It is extremely tolerant of drought and poor soil, but is poisonous to grazing animals. Its seed pods secrete a pale yellow latex when cut open. In India, the mexican prickly poppy is used in the Holika Dahan festival, in which adults and children worship by offering flowers.

Growth Rate:

Moderate

2. 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

3. 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.

Your Essential Companion for Global Plant Exploration

From American natives to Philippine tropics, discover plants worldwide with our app.

Download the App for Free

4. 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

5. Redflower ragleaf

Crassocephalum crepidioides is a slightly succulent herb that can grow up to 1.8 m tall. The plant has mucilaginous and fleshy leaves, though its stems are eaten as a vegetable. It's largely prominent in tropical Africa.

6. 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

7. Ribwort plantain

Ribwort plantain grows in a number of different habitats as long as it has enough sunlight. Its leaves have characteristic parallel veins that make it easy to identify. The heads of ribwort plantains get popped off in some common British children's games. Its seeds are critical food sources for songbirds, and its leaves are eaten by rabbits and deer.

8. Common sowthistle

Common sowthistle is a common weed originated in Europe and West Asia. Alongside many sister species that hard to distinguish, it is considered to be an invasive plant in many parts of the world. Its leaves with some bitter taste are editable either green as a part of a salad or cooked in various ways.

9. Santa Maria feverfew

Parthenium hysterophorus or santa Maria feverfew is also called famine weed. It is an invasive weed that can disrupt the health of crops, pasture, livestock, and humans. A substance in the plant, called parthenin, is highly toxic and can cause dermatitis and breathing difficulties in humans and animals.

10. Lambsquarters

Lambsquarters has many other names, including pigweed, goosefoot, and bacon weed. This plant seems to appear out of nowhere and is considered by many to be a pesky weed. However, the greens of this plant are edible, can be prepared similar to spinach, and are packed with nutrients.

Growth Rate:

Rapid

11. Pigeonberry

The pigeonberry is a vine-like herb that can reach heights of 40 to 200 cm. It produces a bright red berry as a fruit that is tested to be safe to consume. The juice made from these berries was once used as a dye and ink.

12. Blue porterweed

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

13. Oriental false hawksbeard

Oriental false hawksbeard (Youngia japonica) is a plant species native to eastern Asia. The oriental false hawksbeard grows throughout regions all over the globe, and is considered an invasive weed. This species grows especially well in disturbed areas, lawns, and roadsides.

Growth Rate:

Rapid

14. Mexican tea

Mexican tea (Dysphania ambrosioides) is native to tropical parts of the Americas. Both the leaves and stems have tiny glands that give off a bad-smelling odor. It’s a weed that grows along the sides of roads and stream beds.

Growth Rate:

Rapid

15. Artillery plant

The artillery plant is often utilized as a groundcover or an ornamental in many landscapes. It's commonly named the "artillery plant" because the males generally produce pollen in an explosive way. It grows best in a humid environment in partial shade or indirect sunlight. It's a particularly popular plant in indoor rock gardens.

16. Creeping woodsorrel

Creeping woodsorrel (Oxalis corniculata) is a flowering herb which grows aggressively. The leaves have a lemony flavor and are often made into tea that's rich in vitamin C. However, if ingested in large amounts the oxalic acid for which the genus is named can begin to block the body's calcium absorption.

17. Purple amaranth

Purple amaranth (Amaranthus blitum) is an annual plant that often grows as a weed. It is not often cultivated, but some people around the world gather the leaves and stems to be eaten as boiled vegetables. It is particularly common in Greek and Lebanese kitchens.

18. Common chickweed

The common chickweed gets its name due to the fact that chickens love to eat it, though they're not alone in that respect. Though it's often considered a nuisance weed, most parts of this plant can be consumed raw or cooked and used similar to spinach. The saponins in common chickweed are slightly toxic but will only have an effect if ingested in huge quantities.

Growth Rate:

Rapid

19. Three-lobed false mallow

Three-lobed false mallow (Malvastrum coromandelianum) is an annual and perennial herbaceous shrub native to North America and South America. This plant has been introduced to other areas of the world and is commonly found in Australia, Asia, and Africa.

20. Crown Flower

The crown Flower has beautiful flowers that are used to make leis and were a favorite of the last queen of Hawaii. The outer petals of this flower curl back, and reveal what looks like a crown inside. The sap of this plant may cause skin irritation and can be considered toxic.

Discover 4 Exciting Reasons to Choose PictureThis

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Identify toxic plants around you

Easily find your perfect green friends

Get full care tips and tricks for your plants

Download the App for Free

A Botanist in Your Pocket

Scan QR code to download

More Plants in Mauritius

Most Common Toxic Plants

Mauritius, with its tropical maritime climate and fertile soil, provides an ideal habitat for a diverse range of flora including , , and . Given the island's humidity and warm temperatures, conditions are often favorable for toxic plants, which can flourish alongside native and agricultural vegetation. Consequently, there's an ongoing need to monitor and manage these species to safeguard public and ecological health.

Most Common Flowers

Mauritius boasts a tropical climate and diverse soil composition, providing an ideal environment for native flowers to thrive. Among these blossoms, , , and stand out as characteristic symbols of beauty and ecological significance. These flowers contribute to the stunning visual appeal of the region while playing important roles in the local ecosystem. Reliable sources confirm the authenticity of this information, ensuring accurate portrayal of Mauritius' native flora.

Most Common Flowers of Spring

As Mauritius welcomes the Spring season, the environment teems with renewed energy, sparking a brilliant tapestry of florals. Among the blossoming medley, , , and unfurl in vivid hues, signaling nature's reawakening. Each of these blooms carries distinct symbolism and plays a pivotal role in the island's Springtime charm, adding to the vibrant allure that captivates both locals and visitors alike.

Most Common Spring Fruits

Spring in Mauritius unfurls under a warm embrace, igniting the lush landscape into vibrant life as fruit plants thrive in the gentle touch of the island's climate. Witness the bounty of the season with , whose juicy offerings are a local favorite; , celebrated for its refreshing taste; and , integral to traditional cuisines. These fruits, harvested fresh, imbue the essence of Spring's revivifying spirit into every bite.

Most Common Fruits

Mauritius, with its tropical climate and fertile volcanic soil, fosters an environment highly conducive for diverse local fruit plants. Among these, , , and are not just culinary favorites but also culturally ingrained in the island's heritage. Their cultivation is a testament to the region's agricultural adaptability, yielding fruits integral to the local cuisine and traditions, reflecting Mauritius' rich botanical and cultural tapestry.

Most Common Trees

The climate and soil conditions of Mauritius are conducive for the growth of indigenous trees. Three emblematic local trees include , , and . These trees hold significant cultural and ecological value within the region. They contribute to the unique ecosystem of Mauritius and symbolize its biodiversity.

Most Common Tall Trees

Mauritius, with its humid tropical climate and varied terrain, from coastal plains to central plateaus, cultivates soaring arboreal giants. Among these, , , and are noteworthy for their sky-piercing canopies. These species not only dominate the skyline but also play a vital role in the ecological balance and heritage of the island, serving as landmarks of Mauritius's lush biodiversity.

Most Common Flowers of Winter

Winter in Mauritius may be cold, but it is also a paradise for certain flowers that have the resilience to withstand the chill. Among these brave blooms are , , and . Despite the frosty environment, these flowers continue to blossom, showcasing their beauty and symbolic depth.

Most Common Plants

In Mauritius, you can find Red frangipani, Mexican prickly poppy, Madagascar periwinkle, Common coconut palm, Crown of thorns, 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.