Phyla nodiflora (formerly P. incisa)
Family: Verbenaceae
Plant Description: Perennial with mostly prostrate, mat-forming stems to 60 cm or longer. Leaves, opposite, oblanceolate to narrowly oblong, spatulate to obovate, 1-6 cm long, with toothed margins. Inflorescences erect. Flowers in tight heads or spikes arising from leaf axils, the corolla 2-3.5 mm wide, white aging to lavender or purple.
Field Identification: This durable plant is found in damp sands rising 10-15 cm high in walkways, May become taller in taller vegetation where the stems can lean on otherplants.
Plant Trivia: This is an amazing small plant. Not only is it durable in traffic areas, but it has a rigorous root system, rooting at each node. It transplants easily, and is drought tollerant.
Occurrence: Common on barrier islands in depressions, swales, and flats, and on various soils in prairies, openings, and waste places along roadsides.
Bloom Period: Apr -Nov
Plant Use: Great groundcover. Can be used as a lawn alternative as it can be mowed. Is both nectar plant and host plant for the Phaon Crescent butterfly.
Key to the Genus Phyla:
- Leaves broadest above middle……………P. nodiflora
Leaves broadest at or below middle……………………..2
2. Leaves thin, 1-1.5 cm wide………………….P. strigulosa
Leaves thickish, 1.5-2.5 cm wide…….P. lanceolata
