Family: Marantaceae
Thalia geniculata, (bent alligator-flag, fire-flag) is a semi-aquatic plant native to the southeastern United States and other parts of the Americas, including Mexico and the Caribbean. This plant typically grows in wetlands, marshes, and along the edges of ponds and streams. Thalia geniculata is characterized by its tall, erect stems that can reach heights of up to 3 meters (10 feet) and with short rhizomes. The leaves are large, lance-shaped, and often have prominent veins. The plant produces clusters of striking purple flowers, which are held above the foliage on tall stalks. It is often cultivated as an ornamental plant in water gardens and ponds due to its attractive foliage and flowers. Additionally, it provides habitat and food for various aquatic wildlife, making it beneficial for ecosystem health. However, it can also become invasive in some areas where it is introduced outside of its native range, can form dense stands that may compete with other vegetation and was recently reported as naturalized on the island of Oahu.
High Risk Traits:
- Broad elevation range in tropical climates
- Naturalized on Oahu (Hawaiian Islands), Africa and Australia
- An aggressive, weedy plant with the potential to become an environmental weed, recommended for eradication or control in parts of Australia
- A potential weed of rice crops
- A potential environmental weed
- Other species may be invasive
- Forms dense thickets that may exclude other vegetation
- Reproduces by seeds and rhizomes
- Capable of self-pollination
- Seeds and rhizomes dispersed by water, and as dumped garden waste, as well as through intentional cultivation
- Tolerates and resprouts after cutting or top damage
Low Risk Traits:
- Unarmed (no spines, thorns, or burrs)
- Palatable to browsing animals
- Non-toxic
- Restricted to poorly drained, wet soils associated with aquatic and semi-aquatic habitats
- Certain herbicides may provide effective control
