Ludwigia peruviana (L.) H. Hara

Peruvian Primrose Willow

Shrub

Perennial

Vascular

Peruvian Primrose Willow is an introduced semi-woody perennial in the Evening-Primrose family (Onagraceae). It is native to South America, but is now a pantropical weed. In Alabama, it occurs in the southern third of the state. Peruvian Primrose Willow grows in wet ditches, along streams and river, and around ponds and lakes. It is a large plant, reaching 12 feet in height. The stem is woody below and herbaceous above. It is usually killed back to ground level in our area. The woody portions of the stem have brown bark that peels in long, thin strips. The herbaceous portions of the stem are green in color and shaggy pubescent. The stem is branched from near the base, and often has spongy roots growing into the water from the lower portions of the stem if it is submerged. The leaves are alternate, short petiolate, lanceolate to elliptic in outline, and entire. Both surfaces of the leaves are pubescent with long hairs. Flowers are produced singly from the axils of the leaves. There are 4 triangular sepals and 4 yellow petals. The petals are lighter in color near their base and easily detached. The ovary is inferior. The fruit is a capsule. Peruvian Primrose Willow is a fast-growing species that can clog waterways and hamper access to the shoreline of ponds and lakes. It is listed as an invasive plant in Florida.--A. Diamond

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Not Native OBL (NWPL)

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