Abena jamaicensis, Stachytarpheta bogoriensis, Stachytarpheta indica, Stachytarpheta pilosiuscula, Valerianoides jamaicense, Valerianoides jamaicensis, Verbena americana, Verbena jamaicensis, Verbena pilosiuscula, Vermicularia decurrens, Zappania jamaicensis
Bastard vervain, blue porterweed, blue snake weed
Stachytarpheta jamaicensis Is a species of plant in the Verbenaceae family, native throughout the Caribbean. It has many common names including blue porterweed, blue snake weed, bastard vervain, Brazilian tea, Jamaica vervain, and light-blue snakeweed. It is unclear whether S. indica is a separate species. It is usually found along country roadsides and it grows also well as a ruderal plant on disturbed terrain. It is an invasive species in some places.[+]
Stachytarpheta jamaicensis, also known as Jamaican vervain or blue porterweed, is a flowering plant native to tropical America. In Qatar, it has been naturalized and can be found growing wild, particularly in coastal and saline areas. Studies have reported its presence in various regions of the country, including urban and rural areas, where it often thrives in disturbed habitats and along roadsides. The plant's adaptability to Qatar's arid climate and tolerance of high temperatures and salinity make it a notable invasive species in the region.
The observation of Stachytarpheta jamaicensis in Qatar revealed its presence in the Dahl Al Hamam Park, located on Al Markhiya Street in Doha. On March 21, 2016, the plant was spotted, indicating its ability to thrive in the local environment. The species, also known as Blue porterweed, is typically found in tropical and subtropical regions, suggesting that Qatar's climate may be suitable for its growth. The sighting of Stachytarpheta jamaicensis in a park setting implies that it may have been intentionally introduced or has naturalized in the area. Further observations would be necessary to determine the plant's distribution and abundance in Qatar. This record contributes to the understanding of the country's flora and highlights the need for continued monitoring of non-native species. The plant's presence may also have implications for local ecosystems and biodiversity.
www.theplantlist.org
QNHG (Qatar Natural History Group) and associated people, for a possibility to participate in their field excursions and to learn about local nature.