Top 20 Most Common Weeds in Myanmar

In the warm and humid environment of Myanmar, a diverse array of garden weeds flourish. These unwelcome guests exploit the plentiful rainfall and fertile soils to establish robust populations. Among the most pervasive are Culantro, Pepper elder, and Common purslane, which can often be seen invading both cultivated and uncultivated landscapes. Effective management of these weeds is crucial, as they can compete with crops for resources, thwarting the efforts of gardeners and farmers alike.

Most Common Weeds

1. 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.

2. Pepper elder

Pepper elder (Peperomia pellucida) is a perennial flowering plant that blooms all year. The entire pepper elder plant is edible and can be eaten raw or cooked.

3. Chamber bitter

Chamber bitter is blooms in summer. Its striking branched leaf pattern makes it an attractive ornamental, but it is a weedy plant that takes careful management to stop its seeds from spreading to unwanted areas. It is considered invasive in the southern United States.

Growth Rate:

Moderate

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4. 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

5. 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.

6. 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.

7. 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.

8. 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

9. Green arrow arum

Green arrow arum (Peltandra virginica) is an aquatic plant with arrow-shaped stalks, growing in marshlands and wetlands and attract flies. A limited number of small mammals and water birds feed on this plant. It is, however, toxic to humans and may contribute to the formation of kidney stones if consumed.

Growth Rate:

Slow

10. 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.

11. 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

12. Cutleaf groundcherry

Physalis angulata is an annual plant belonging to the nightshade family Solanaceae. It has dark green leaves that are roughly oval, and often have tooth shapes around the edge. The flowers are a pale yellow and the yellow-orange fruits are wrapped inside a balloon-like calyx, which is toxic and should not be eaten.

13. Common mugwort

Common mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) is an herbaceous plant often found in nitrogen-rich soils. The plant's scent is reportedly a mild insect repellant. Common mugwort is used as an offering in Nepalese temples. Tradition holds that it has cleansing properties, so believers also use it to sweep their floors to give them both a spiritual and physical cleaning.

Growth Rate:

Rapid

14. Mexican fireplant

Mexican fireplant is native to tropical America, but it has been naturalized in other tropical and subtropical regions in the world. *Euphorbia heterophylla* is a poisonous plant to humans and livestock. It contains a toxic milky sap which can cause strong skin irritation.

15. Tapa cloth tree

Another name for tapa cloth tree (Broussonetia papyrifera) is paper mulberry. Ancient Austronesian peoples used the inner bark of tapa cloth tree to make clothing, a practice that continues among some Pacific peoples. This inner bark is also used to make high-quality paper in China and Japan.

Growth Rate:

Rapid

16. 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

17. Shaggy soldier

A member of the daisy family, Galinsoga quadriradiata can be an invasive weed that is especially harmful to organic crops. The sticky seeds can hang on to livestock and people, creating an additional nuisance. Each plant can produce over 7000 seeds, and it can reduce crop production by up to half.

18. Blue porterweed

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

19. Mock strawberry

Often confused with true strawberries, the mock strawberry leaves, growth, and fruit is similar in appearance. While the mock strawberry is edible, it generally lacks flavor compared to true strawberries.

Growth Rate:

Moderate

20. Pepper vine

Pepper vine (Ampelopsis arborea) is a plant native to the southwestern region of the United States. It is planted as an ornamental vine in gardens, but gardeners must be careful because it can rapidly grow and pull down the branches from other trees.

Growth Rate:

Rapid

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More Plants in Myanmar

Most Common Toxic Plants

Myanmar's warm, humid climate and diverse ecosystems, ranging from lush forests to wetlands, create favorable conditions for the proliferation of toxic plants. Notably, the presence of , , and reflects the region's capacity to sustain such hazardous flora. Local biodiversity contributes to the spread of these plants, posing potential risks to humans and wildlife.

Most Common Flowers

Myanmar's climate and rich soil create an ideal environment for a diverse array of indigenous flowers to bloom. Among the most characteristic local flowers are , , and . These exquisite blossoms contribute to the visual beauty and ecological importance of the region. While refraining from detailed specifics, it is essential to emphasize the trustworthiness of sources in validating the significance of these flowers.

Most Common Flowers of Spring

As Spring paints Myanmar with lush vibrancy, the environment transforms, nurturing the awakening of floral splendors. The unfurls its petals, heralding the season's start, while the adds a dash of color and cultural importance to the landscape. Meanwhile, the blooms, symbolizing new beginnings and the perpetual cycle of life. Together, these flowers are quintessential emblems of Spring's rejuvenating essence.

Most Common Spring Fruits

Spring in Myanmar unfurls amidst warm, gentle breezes and the rejuvenating kiss of sun upon the rich soils, awakening a symphony of fruit plants. Among the celebrated bounty, , , and reach the peak of their freshness. Each fruit, bursting with vibrant flavors, not only satiates local palates but also marks a season of agricultural abundance and cultural festivities.

Most Common Fruits

Myanmar, with its tropical monsoon climate and rich, fertile soils, provides an ideal habitat for diverse fruit cultivation. Noteworthy local fruit plants like , , and thrive in this welcoming environment. Each plant holds a unique place in Myanmar's cultural tapestry, signifying the agricultural abundance and gastronomic heritage of the region. These fruit-bearing flora not only sustain local economies but also embody traditional practices and seasonal festivities.

Most Common Trees

Myanmar's favorable climatic conditions and diverse soil types provide an ideal environment for the growth of native trees. Among the most emblematic local trees are , , and . Each of these trees holds cultural and ecological significance within the region. These trees contribute to the biodiversity of Myanmar, providing habitats for various species and important ecosystem services. They play a vital role in sustaining the country's rich natural heritage.

Most Common Tall Trees

Myanmar's diverse landscape, ranging from northern highlands to southern lowlands, coupled with a tropical monsoon climate, provides an excellent habitat for towering tree species. Among the giants reaching for the sky, , , and stand out as remarkable specimens due to their height. These trees are not just awe-inspiring in stature; they also hold significant ecological and historical importance, forming a critical part of Myanmar's natural heritage.

Most Common Flowers of Winter

Winter in Myanmar may seem cold and frosty, but it is surprisingly home to a variety of beautiful flowers. Among them, , , and bloom, showcasing their resilience and adding splashes of color to the serene landscape. These flowers not only withstand the chill but also represent the beauty and symbolic depth of nature's ability to thrive even in the harshest seasons.

Most Common Plants

In Myanmar, you can find Golden pothos, Heart of jesus, Asian Rice, Marijuana, Pepper, 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.