Phyla nodiflora aka Frogfruit

Taxonomy

Genus Phyla Family Verbenaceae Order Lamiales Class Magnoliopsida Phylum Tracheophyta
Phyla nodiflora, commonly known as frog fruit, sawtooth fogfruit, or turkey tangle, is a mat-forming perennial plant in the family Verbenaceae. Native to the region spanning from northern South America to southern United States, it can also be found in tropical areas worldwide as a naturalized species. This ornamental plant is often grown as ground cover and is frequently seen in yards or disturbed areas as a lawn weed. With its woody base, creeping stems up to 90cm long, and oval to spoon-shaped leaves that have serrated tips, Phyla nodiflora forms a dense mat that reaches about 15cm in height. Its inflorescence consists of a purple center surrounded by small white-to-pink flowers, giving it a match-like appearance, which has led to its nickname "matchweed." Although similar to the related species Phyla lanceolata, Phyla nodiflora has shorter and often blunter leaves that are more rounded. In India, it is known by various common names such as bukkan, ratolia, vakkan, poduthalai, neerthippali, vasir, and vasuka. This plant has medicinal uses and is used to treat suppuration, common colds, and lithiasis.

Common names

Frogfruit, Fogfruit, Carpetweed

How to care for Frogfruit

Difficulty

Even if you don't have a green thumb, you can successfully care for Frogfruit due to its easy-going nature.

Water

Frogfruit should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Lighting

Frogfruit thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Carpetweed.

Toxicity

Ploi does not possess verified information regarding the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event that you, a member of your family, or a pet ingests plant material with an unclear toxicity level, it is highly recommended to seek the advice of a medical professional.

Growth-pattern

Frogfruit grows vertically and new growth emerges from the top of the plant.

Region of origin

Frogfruit’s native range is E. Asia - China to Australia - New South Wales, Queensland, Victoria. S. America.

More info:
Wikipedia

More Species in Phyla Genus

Phyla lanceolata Lance Leaf Fogfruit

Phyla cuneifolia Wedgeleaf