Carpetweed

Carpetweed is a common annual weed found in lawns, gardens, and disturbed areas. Its scientific name is Mollugo verticillata. It is characterized by a sprawling, mat-forming growth habit that can spread extensively, hence its name. The plant typically has smooth, somewhat fleshy, lance-shaped leaves that are arranged in whorls around the stem. These leaves are usually about 1 to 2 inches long.

The flowers of carpetweed are small and inconspicuous, often white or greenish-white, and appear in the leaf axils. They are generally not a prominent feature of the plant. Carpetweed reproduces primarily by seed. The seeds are tiny and can remain viable in the soil for many years, making it a persistent weed in many environments.

This weed thrives in poor, compacted soils and full sun but can tolerate a range of conditions. It is often seen as an indicator of soil compaction or low fertility. While it is generally not considered a significant agricultural pest, it can be a nuisance in home lawns and gardens, competing with desirable plants for water, nutrients, and sunlight. Control methods often involve manual removal of young plants or the use of herbicides, particularly pre-emergent herbicides to prevent seed germination. Its low-growing nature makes it difficult to control with mowing alone.