Virginia Buttonwood

Diodia virginiana

Virginia Buttonweed is a horizontally growing, creeping perennial broadleaf weed that is sometimes referred to as Diodia hirsuta, Diodia tetragona or simply as Buttonweed. Its scientific name is Diodia virginiana.

Identify

Opposite

Creeping

Elliptical

Virginia Buttonweed typically grows horizontally, but it can also grow as an ascending, spreading broadleaf weed. It features young leaves with short hairs on the leaf margin, lacks petioles and is connected across the stem by a membrane. Its stems are covered with gland-tipped hairs, and the center stipule is often thick and thorn-like. Virginia Buttonweed produces flowers resembling fuzzy, four-pointed stars and reproduces by seeds and plant segments.

Life Cycle

This broadleaf weed can be found in the southeastern United States and as far west as parts of Texas. It thrives in wet, moist conditions and tolerates close mowing, so it's found mainly in grass and lawns.

Control

A thick, dense lawn is a key component in preventing invasive weeds. However, cultural weed prevention tactics are generally ineffective at controlling Diodia virginiana. This creeping perennial thrives in lawn environments and can tolerate close mowing, making the weed difficult to spot, let alone control. Furthermore, physical removal usually results in spreading additional seeds into your lawn. Professionally selected and applied broadleaf weed killers—based on your specific climate and geography—are the most effective method for control.