Carpetweed

Mollugo verticillata

Carpetweed is a summer annual broadleaf weed that is also known as Indian Chickweed, Whorled Chickweed, Devil's Grip and Mollugo verticillata.

Identify

Whorled

Entire

Spatulate

Carpetweed is a small, many-branched broadleaf weed growing horizontally in circular mats. Its leaf surfaces are dull, green and smooth with pale undersides and a pinkish-brown tint toward the base. The stems are smooth, and the root system consists of a sparsely branched taproot. Blooming from May through November, Carpetweed features small white flowers with five petals, each with three green vertical lines running through them. Reproduction occurs by seeds.

Life Cycle

This broadleaf weed thrives in disturbed areas and is often found in waste areas, glades, newly seeded or thin lawn turfs, and along railroads and roadsides. Carpetweed is found throughout much of the United States and Canada.

Control

The combination of its quick, low-to-the-ground growth habits and preference for thin turfs make Mollugo verticillata a frequent invader of newer lawns. Removal by cultural weed control methods—such as hand-pulling weeds and proper mowing—can be difficult. A professionally applied broadleaf weed killer is recommended for complete eradication.