Phyla nodiflora

Identification tip: Part of a complex that produces intermediate hybrids. Phyla nodiflora has leaf blades mostly widest toward the apex and toothed only near the apex. Phyla lanceolata has leaf blades that are mostly widest at or below the middle and toothed from below the middle to the apex (also fits P. strigulosa which only occurs in north Louisiana). Phyla intermedia is thought to be a hybrid of P. lanceolata and P. nodiflora. Venation not conspicuous. Peduncle much longer than the leaves (11.5 cm).

Cuttings, taken in late spring through the summer, root readily at the nodes.

An acceptable forage for cattle. Seeds eaten by waterfowl (Holmes 1990). Also attracts numerous insect pollinators. Serves as the larval host for the Phaon Cresentspot, Buckeye, and White Peacock butterflies.

The Acadian French name for frog-fruit is "caille eau," stemming from the superstition that it can curdle water (Holmes 1990). Frog-fruit grows on the edges of ponds and lakes and in swamps, ditches, and low areas throughout Louisiana and most of Texas.

Ditches, roadways, beaches, and fields.