Botanical name: Gomphrena celosioides
Common Names
Gomphrena weed, Soft khaki weed, Prostrate globe amaranth
Gomphrena weed is a low-growing perennial broadleaf weed found throughout Australia, particularly in warm regions. It is increasingly common in Western Australia, especially in urban environments such as lawns, footpaths, car parks, and compacted soils.
This weed forms dense, spreading mats that grow close to the ground, making it difficult to control once established. It thrives in hot, dry conditions and is highly tolerant of poor, compacted soils, making it a frequent problem in high-traffic and neglected areas.
Leaves are small, oval-shaped, and covered with fine hairs, giving them a slightly grey-green appearance. The plant produces small, white, clover-like flower heads that sit close to the ground and can appear throughout much of the year in warm climates.
Gomphrena weed spreads primarily by seed and can establish quickly in bare or thin turf. Its prostrate growth habit allows it to avoid mowing, giving it a competitive advantage in lawns and managed turf areas.
Similar Species
Khaki weed (Alternanthera pungens)
SCENARIOS AND SOLUTIONS:
Compacted lawns and high-traffic turf areas: Use a selective broadleaf herbicide such as Apparent Bow and Arrow to control gomphrena while maintaining turf coverage. Also use pre-emergent such as Spartan Herbicide for prevention
Cracks in concrete areas: Apply Apparent Salvo or Apparent Glyphosate to actively growing plants to prevent further spread
Bare or disturbed soils: Use Apparent Salvo and improve soil conditions to reduce reinfestation
