Appearance

Urena lobata is an erect shrub that grows up to 10 ft. (3 m) in height. The plant is single stalked, with free-branching stems that comprise a bushy appearance. It grows as an annual species in many areas of Florida but may perennate in south Florida.

Foliage

The leaves are palmately lobed, pubescent with stellate hairs, and 1.6-3.1 in. (4-8 cm) long.

Flowers

Flowers are borne in axillary clusters, pinkish-violet, about 0.4 in. (1 cm) across.

Fruit

Fruit is pubescent with hooked bristles or barbs that cling to clothing or fur.

Ecological Threat

Urena lobata invades disturbed areas, pastures, eroded areas, and perennial crop plantations. Urena lobata tolerates salt spray but does not grow in saturated soils. Having an aggressive habit, this weed grows rapidly and can reach 2-7 ft. (0.6-2.1 m) by the end of the first year.

Resources

• Invasive Species Management Plans for Florida - University of Florida - Center for Aquatic and Invasive Plants
• Center for Aquatic and Invasive Plants - University of Florida
• Plant of the Week - killerplants.com

Selected Images

Maps

Invasive Listing Sources

• Florida Invasive Plant Council - Plant List - Category I
• Hawaii Noxious Weeds
• Jil M. Swearingen, Survey of invasive plants occurring on National Park Service lands, 2000-2007
• Southwest Florida Cooperative Invasive Species Mgmt. Area
• WeedUS - Database of Plants Invading Natural Areas in the United States

References