Alligator Weed

Alternanthera philoxeroides, Amaranthaceae

Zones

8–11

Layer

Herbaceous

Lifespan

Perennial

Growth

Fast

Guild Roles

ProducerGround CoverMulch Maker

Growing Conditions

Sun

Full Sun (preferred)Partial Shade (tolerated)

Water

High (established)High (seedling)

Soil pH

5.5 – 8.5

Tolerances

Drought

Frost

Heat

Pest Resistance

Disease Resist.

Companion Plants

Rice Paddy HerbLimnophila aromatica

Pest Deterrent

Arumleaf ArrowheadSagittaria cuneata

Pest Deterrent

Water PoppyHydrocleys nymphoides

Physical SupportBeneficial Insect Habitat

Antagonistic Plants

Grass-leaved ArrowheadSagittaria graminea

Aggressive alligator weed competes for nutrients and may inhibit native arrowhead growth through allelopathy

Creeping Primrose-willowLudwigia repens

Aggressive Alligator Weed competes intensively with Creeping Primrose-willow for light and root space

Sessile JoyweedAlternanthera sessilis

Congeneric Alternanthera species compete aggressively for aquatic and semi-aquatic habitats

Water WisteriaHygrophila difformis

Alligator weed is highly competitive and can outcompete water wisteria for resources

Water SmartweedPolygonum amphibium

Water smartweed and alligator weed compete aggressively for aquatic habitats

Uses

Functions

Water FiltrationErosion ControlNutrient CyclingBiomass ProductionConstructed Wetland Plant

Edible Parts

LeavesShoots

Medicinal Uses

Anti-InflammatoryWound Healing

Common Questions

What zones does Alligator Weed grow in?

Alligator Weed grows in USDA hardiness zones 8 through 11.

What are good companion plants for Alligator Weed?

Good companions for Alligator Weed include Rice Paddy Herb, Arumleaf Arrowhead, Water Poppy.

Design guilds with Alligator Weed and see companion relationships visually.

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