Top 20 Most Common Weeds in Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe's warm climate and seasonal rainfall create conducive conditions for various garden weeds. Amongst the plethora of invasive species, Common sowthistle, Blue porterweed, and Common purslane are especially prevalent, posing significant challenges to gardeners and landscapers. These common weeds not only compete with domestic plants for nutrients and space but also can be tough to control due to their vigorous growth and propagation characteristics.

Most Common Weeds

1. 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.

2. Blue porterweed

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

3. 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.

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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. 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.

6. Puncture Vine

Puncture Vine_ (Tribulus terrestris)_ is a poisonous plant. The fruit consists of burs with sharp spines, which can puncture the skin of human beings and animals. They can also rupture a bicycle tire (hence the name) and penetrate shoe soles. The leaves contain compounds known as saponins, which are toxic to livestock.

7. Jimsonweed

Jimsonweed (Datura stramonium) is a species of nightshade plant native to Central America which is considered an invasive species in more temperate climates. It can be toxic if ingested in significant quantities. It has a distinctive, strong smell. The jimsonweed gets its common name from Jamestown, Virginia, where soldiers ingested the plants exhibited altered mental states afterward.

8. 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.

9. Common wormwood

Common wormwood (Artemisia absinthium) was the main ingredient in absinthe, a distilled, highly alcoholic beverage, BUT it's technically toxic. It can cause nervous disorders such as headaches, hallucinations, insomnia, convulsions, etc. and is therefore illegal in many countries. Common wormwood may grow like a weed on unmanaged areas, with silvery foliage and small yellow flowers in late summer.

10. Flaxleaf fleabane

Flaxleaf fleabane (Erigeron bonariensis) is an annual plant with distinctive blue-green foliage. Flaxleaf fleabane is considered a weed. This species is often found growing along concrete cracks in driveways and sidewalks. Tt is also found in pastures, gardens and roadsides. Flaxleaf fleabane produces many seeds, which are dispersed by wind and transported by animals, vehicles and people.

Growth Rate:

Rapid

11. Spanish needles

Spanish needles (Bidens bipinnata) are a very common flowering plant that is evolutionarily related to daisies. The spanish needles is native to North America and Asia, and grows throughout the world. The spanish needles is considered a hearty plant that can grow in a wide range of environmental conditions.

12. Cheeseweed mallow

Cheeseweed mallow (Malva parviflora) is a plant species native to Europe, Asia, and Northern Africa. Cheeseweed mallow has a variety of other common names including Egyptian mallow, marshmallow, small-flowered mallow, and mallow. This species is naturalized in many places.

13. Prickly lettuce

Prickly lettuce, in spite of its appearance, is the closest wild relative of cultivated lettuce. Even though it is widely considered a weed, it can be used in the kitchen. Young leaves of prickly lettuce are edible and the bitter milky latex can also be made into a condiment or to add flavor to salads. Consuming in large quantities could cause digestive upsets.

14. Redroot amaranth

While the redroot amaranth is considered a weed in most areas, some parts are edible. Fresh leaves may be included in soups and stews, while the dried leaves can be utilized in tea or ground into flour for bread or used as a thickening agent. Seeds can also be eaten, but the stalks, roots, and older leaves contain toxic substances. Redroot amaranth is sometimes used as fodder for livestock - it is nutritious in small amounts but toxic if too much is fed over a span of several days.

Growth Rate:

Rapid

15. 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

16. Nut grass

Nut grass can be found all over the world. This perennial plant gets its name because its tubers resemble nuts. Nut grass is considered one of the most invasive plants in the world, and among the most difficult to eradicate. It reduces crop yields and is resistant to most herbicides.

Growth Rate:

Rapid

17. 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.

18. 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.

19. Flower-of-an-hour

Flower-of-an-hour gets its unique name because its beautiful blossoms last for just a short time. The Hibiscus trionum is a tropical ornamental annual plant which has become naturalized in the United States. After blossoms fade, the plant produces an interesting balloon-shaped seed pod with brown stripes over a green pod.

20. Horseweed

Horseweed is a North American herbaceous annual plant with a hairy stem, numerous pointed leaves, and waxy inflorescence. It has been naturalized in Eurasia and Australia, where it is a common weed in urban and agricultural regions. Horseweed can be used in a survival situation to start a friction fire.

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More Plants in Zimbabwe

Most Common Toxic Plants

Zimbabwe's warm climate and diverse ecosystems, ranging from savanna to highlands, create a hospitable environment for various plant species, including toxic ones. High rainfall and temperate conditions in certain areas can compound the prevalence of , , and . Both rural and agricultural landscapes face the challenge of managing these toxic flora, which potentially impact ecosystems, livestock, and human health.

Most Common Flowers

In the fertile lands of Zimbabwe, characterized by a diverse climate and rich soil, several native flowers bloom vibrantly. Among these, , , and stand out for their striking beauty and ecological significance. These flowers not only add to the visual splendor of the region but also hold cultural symbolism and play a crucial role in the local ecosystem. Through reliable sources, the unique charm of Zimbabwe's floral heritage shines brightly.

Most Common Flowers of Spring

As Zimbabwe transitions into Spring, the landscape is awakened by an environmental metamorphosis, nurturing a myriad of florals. Among them, unfurls its petals, signaling rebirth. The vibrant hues of add a splash of color, embodying the country's rich biodiversity. Lastly, emerges, its bloom symbolizing hope and new beginnings, a reminder of nature's perennial rhythm.

Most Common Spring Fruits

In Zimbabwe, spring breathes life into the land, ushering in a season of growth with warm rains and vibrant landscapes. This period of renewal encourages an array of fruit plants to flourish. Among them, , with its succulent offerings, , bursting with freshness, and , a local favorite, reach their peak and grace harvest baskets. These fruits not only embody the essence of spring but also contribute significantly to the local culture and cuisine.

Most Common Fruits

Zimbabwe's warm temperate climate, characterized by wet summers and dry winters, along with its rich, well-drained soils, lays a fertile ground for a variety of local fruit plants. Among these, , , and stand out as culturally significant species. They not only reflect the nation's biodiversity but also hold substantial value in traditional diets, medicine, and economic activities. Each plant serves as a testament to the nation's rich agricultural heritage and its alignment with the local ecosystem.

Most Common Trees

Zimbabwe's climatic and soil conditions provide a suitable environment for the growth of indigenous trees. Among the emblematic trees of this region are , , and . These trees hold great significance in the cultural and ecological landscape of Zimbabwe. They play a crucial role in providing habitat and food for local wildlife, preserving soil stability, and supporting traditional rituals and practices. Their presence showcases the rich biodiversity and natural heritage of Zimbabwe.

Most Common Tall Trees

Zimbabwe, with its subtropical climate and diverse terrains from savanna to forests, conjures conditions conducive to the soaring flora. Amongst these, the majestic , towering , and the lofty stand as silent sentinels of the nation's rich biodiversity. Beyond mere altitude, these species are vital ecological stalwarts, with some even woven into the tapestry of local lore, cradling both historical and environmental narratives within their timeworn trunks.

Most Common Flowers of Winter

In the serene cold of Winter in Zimbabwe, a frosty environment surprisingly becomes a haven for certain flowers. Despite the chilly temperatures, , , and manage to bloom, showcasing their resilience and bringing beauty to the landscape. These Winter flowers are a testament to the vibrant and diverse flora of Zimbabwe, symbolizing the strength and vitality that can be found even in the harshest of seasons.

Most Common Plants

In Zimbabwe, you can find Grain sorghum, Pearl millet, Golden dewdrops, Mango tree, Madagascar periwinkle, 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.