Explore the vibrant landscape of red-stemmed weeds, diverse plants as intriguing as they are beautiful. These weeds aren’t only stunning in appearance but also have many notable characteristics. We will uncover the secrets behind these fascinating species by exploring twelve amazing weeds sporting red stems.
What Types of Weeds Have Red Stems?
Image by and Credit to: MurielBendel
They are invasive plants that tend to grow large and distinctive red stems. Certain kinds of species have stems of crimson, and feature vibrant foliage and flowers, adding to their popularity in certain design ideas for gardens.
Despite their attractive and bright appearance, these plants can be a major choker. They can also take out other plants by encroaching on their natural habitat, creating serious danger to the overall health the garden.
Twelve Weeds with Red Stem
| Weed Type | Weed Features |
| Canada Thistle | The perennial broadleaf weed has spiny leaves |
| Kochia | Annual broadleaf weed, bushy, and upright growth |
| Redstem Filaree | Perennial broadleaf weed with deeply lobed leaves |
| Pigweed | Annual broadleaf weed with red leaves and stems |
| Field Bindweed | Perennial vine, heart-shaped leaves |
| Redtop | The annual grass weed has red-colored stems |
| Carrot Weed | Annual broadleaf weed, red-purple stems |
| Red Sorrel | Perennial broadleaf grass, the leaves are shaped like arrows. |
| Stinging Nettle | Perennial herbaceous weed that stings hairs on the stems |
| Pokeweed | Perennial herbaceous weed that is stems that are reddish-purple |
| Lady’s Mantle | Perennial herbaceous plant, with leaves with scallops |
| Bull Thistle | Biennial broadleaf plant with sharp leaves |
Twelve Weeds with Red Stem
If you are looking to add color to your yard or identifying as a snarling intruder, be aware of these twelve weeds that are known by their distinct red stems.
- Canada thistle
- Kochia
- Redstem filaree
- Pigweed
- Field Bindweed
- Redtop
- Carrot Weed
- Red Sorrel
- Stinging Nettle
- Pokeweed
- Lady’s Mantle
- Bull Thistle
1. Canada Thistle (Cirsium Arvense)
Image by and Credit to: RitaE
Canada thistle (Cirsium arvense) is a invading weed that is distinguished by its bright pink flowers and red-colored stems and vast root systems. Originating from Eurasia and thrives in areas of abundant sunshine, well-aerated soils, and regions that receive 17 to 35 inches in annual rainfall.
With the capacity to endure the underground environment over up to 22 years prior to the seeds germinate, it is the greatest challenge of eliminating.
Get rid of it by putting pressure on the plant in its weakest phase in summertime, causing it to eat the nutrients stored in the root. Then, it is followed by the cultivation of the season and growing competing crops applying an herbicide approved by the USDA.
Canada Thistle: Quick Identification Summary
| Plant Type | Perennial Weed |
| Plant Size | 2-4 feet tall |
| Flower Size | Small (emerge in small clumps) |
| Flower Timing | Late spring to early summer |
| Flower Color | Purple |
| Leaf Color | Green |
| Leaf Shape | Long, lance-shaped |
| Growth Rate | Rapid |
| Temperature Requirements | USDA zones 3a – 10b |
| Invasive or Not | Yes |
2. Kochia (Kochia Scoparia)
Image by and Credit to: sarangib
Kochia scoparia also referred to as the annual kochia, is an invasive weed that has been encouraged by humans that is native in Europe as well as Asia. The most notable characteristic is its green stem, which develops into a vibrant red as the plant matures which makes it easily identifiable.
Being a fast-growing plant it grows taller between 1- 7 feet, and it also produces seeds that are scattered by the winds. To stop annual kochia from growing owners can choose mechanical techniques such as mowing or cutting back prior to the time it matures and begins to develop seeds.
Chemical control is another alternative, with a variety of herbicides available for use.
Kochia: Quick Identification Summary
| Plant Feature | Kochia scoparia |
| Plant Type | Invasive Weed |
| Plant Size | 1-7 feet |
| Flower Size | Small |
| Flower Timing | Late Summer to Early Fall |
| Flower Color | Green to Red |
| Leaf Color | Green |
| Leaf Shape | Simple alternative arrangement |
| Growth Rate | Fast |
| Temperature Requirements | It thrives in dry climates. |
| Invasive or Not | Yes |
3. Redstem Filaree (Erodium Cicutarium)
Image by and Credit to: WikimediaImages
Redstem filaree, which is a native to the Mediterranean or Asia is a weed that has distinctive red stems due to its hairy, red-tinted stems.
The most obvious indicators are the finely divided leaves on opposite sides with edges that are toothed or lobed, five-petalled pink flowers that are purplish, and lobed fruit that form an awn-like tussle at the time of maturity.
The removal process is usually done by hand-pulling prior to seed pod growth, which reduces the chance of re-infestation.
Redstem Filaree: Quick Identification Summary
| Plant Type | Winter’s biennial or annual forb |
| Plant Size | 3 inches – 2 feet tall |
| Flower Size | Not stated |
| Flower Timing | In early spring, flowers bloom. |
| Flower Color | Pink purplish |
| Leaf Color | Tint of reddish |
| Leaf Shape | The finely separated, opposite toothed or lobed |
| Growth Rate | Rapid growth in early spring |
| Temperature Requirement | Appropriate for Mediterranean climates |
| Invasive | Yes |
4. Pigweed (Amaranthus Spp.)
Image by and Credit to: United Soybean Board
Pigweed, also known as Amaranthus is a plant that has a visible red stem. It’s considered an invasive plant due to its rapid growth rate and capacity to withstand harsh environments.
To recognize the Pigweed is by noticing it’s red-colored stem, diamond and oval-shaped leaves. Beautiful flowers that come in white, pink or lavender.
If you find yourself in the path of this weed, take care to control it by removing it before it flowers, and then covering your garden with winter mulch to keep seeds from sprouting.
Pigweed: Quick Identification Summary
| Plant Type | Herbaceous Plant |
| Plant Size | up six feet high |
| Flower Size | Varies |
| Flowering Timing | Summer |
| Flower Color | Pink, White or Lavender |
| Leaf Color | Green |
| Leaf Shape | Diamond or Oval |
| Growth Rate | Fast |
| Temperature Requirement | 85 – 95 degrees Fahrenheit (29-35 degrees Celsius) |
| Invasive | Yes |
5. Field Bindweed (Convolvulus Arvensis)
Image by and Credit to: Cbaile19
Field Bindweed, scientifically known as Convolvulus arvensis is a very persistant weed that is known for its extensive root system, which can reach 14 feet in depth.
It is easily identified by its trumpet-shaped 2-inches flowers in pink or white Its rapid spread in the summer months, and its distinctive red stem.
It thrives in hedges and the outskirts of woodlands that are able to get the full sunlight. To eliminate it, early intervention is crucial; use a garden fork in order to get rid of the entire root before it breaks and you can also consider using methods to control weeds, like smothering them with blackout cloth.
Field Bindweed: Quick Identification Summary
| Plant Type | Perennial Climber |
| Plant Size | Over 6 feet with perfect conditions |
| Flower Size | 2 inches |
| Flower Timing | Mid-Summer to Fall |
| Flower Color | White, Pink, Striped Pink and White |
| Leaf Color | Green |
| Leaf Shape | Arrow-shaped |
| Growth Rate | Rapid |
| Temperature Requirements | USDA Hardiness 4 – 8 |
| Invasive | Yes |
6. Redtop (Agrostis Gigantea)
Image by and Credit to: T.Voekler
The Redtop (Agrostis gigantea) is an invasive plant that can be identified by its reddish-colored stem, giving it its name. This perennial can be identified helped by its pale green leaves as well as reddish pink flowers, which blossom from mid-April to mid-July.
The control measures include cutting it prior to seeding or applying post-emergent herbicides.
Redtop: Quick Identification Summary
| Plant Type | Perennial Weed |
| Plant Size | Three feet or more |
| Flower Size | Small (1-2cm) |
| Flower Timing | Early to Mid-Summer |
| Flower Color | Pink-Red |
| Leaf Color | Light Green |
| Leaf Shape | Flat, narrow |
| Growth Rate | Rapid |
| Temperature Requirements | Cool Temperatures (50-77 degrees Fahrenheit) |
| Invasive | Yes |
7. Carrot Weed (Daucus Carota)
Image by and Credit to: Alvesgaspar
Carrotweed, also known as Daucus carota is easily identified by its distinctive stems that are reddish or purple. Despite its beautiful pretty white blooms, the plant is regarded as an invasive weed because of its invading growth pattern which could overpower other species of plants.
Get rid of it by manually taking it out and then removing its taproot, which is long and slender to stop the regrowth.
Carrot Weed: Quick Identification Summary
| Plant type | Herbaceous Biennial |
| Plant size | 1- 2 meters |
| Size of the flower | 3 inches in diameter |
| Flower timing | Summer |
| Color of the flower | White |
| Leaf color | Green |
| Leaf shape | Triangular towards the bottom, with fine hairs |
| Rate of growth | Fast |
| The requirements for temperature | Able to withstand a range of climatic conditions |
| Invasive | Yes |
8. Red Sorrel (Rumex Acetosella)
Image by and Credit to: Harry Rose
Red Sorrel (Rumex acetosella) is a weed that can be identified by its distinctive red stem, and green leaves with deeply red veins. It rapidly spreads across the garden, which makes it difficult to control.
Its name is derived from its distinctive red stem and the ability to rapidly spread through its Rhizomes. To manage it hand-weeding and mulching is crucial as is cautious removal prior to the formation of seeds in pods.
Red Sorrel: Quick Identification Summary
| Plant Type | Herbaceous perennial |
| Plant Size | up to 24 inches |
| Flower Size | Small, often unnoticed |
| Flower Timing | Mid-spring through early fall |
| Flower Color | Not that significant, but often are mixed with leaves |
| Leaf Color | Deep red veins and green with deep red. |
| Leaf Shape | Oval to the elongated |
| Growth Rate | Rapid |
| Temperature Requirements | Hardy In USDA zones 4-8 |
| Invasive or Not | Yes |
9. Stinging Nettle (Urtica Dioica)
Image by and Credit to: Vinayaraj
Stinging Nettle is scientifically referred to as Urtica dioica is an annual broadleaf that contains tiny hairs that sting on its slender leaves.
It is easy to identify it through its tiny, brown-to-green flowers, which are in clusters on the stem, making the appearance of the appearance of a red stem.
Removing these nettles safely requires hand-pulling with gloves, or close-mowing in order to hinder the development of fruit.
Stinging Nettle: Quick Identification Summary
| Type | Broadleaf perennial |
| Size | up six feet high, and 3 feet wide |
| Flower Size | Small |
| Flower Timing | Flowers from late spring until the beginning of autumn |
| Flower Color | Green to Brown |
| Leaf Color | Green |
| Leaf Shape | Sawtooth-edged |
| Rate of Growth | Invasive in soils that are moist and rich. |
| Temperature Requirements | USDA zones 3 – 10 |
| Invasive | Yes |
10. Pokeweed (Phytolacca Americana)
Image by and Credit to: Lazaregagnidze
Pokeweed also known as Phytolacca Americana is a broad-leaved annual plant, distinguished from its bright red stems as well as clusters of grape-like fruit that can reach 8-10 feet.
The plant is identified by its 10-inch lance-shaped leaves, with smooth margins and pink-colored races with green and white flowers, this isn’t one you’d like to have in your yard because of its aggressive nature.
Control Pokeweed by cutting or cultivating the plants in the seedling stage, or using glyphosate on cut stems.
Pokeweed: Quick Identification Summary
| Plant Type | Broad-leaved Perennial |
| Plant Size | 8-10 feet |
| Flower Size | Small |
| Flower Timing | May to October (Cooler Climates), Year-round (Warmer Areas) |
| Flower Color | White to Green and then to Black. |
| Leaf Color | Green |
| Leaf Shape | Lance-Shaped |
| Growth Rate | Rapid |
| Temperature Requirements | Zones 4 – 8 |
| Invasive or Not | Yes |
11. Lady’s Mantle (Alchemilla Erythropoda)
Image by and Credit to: Björn S…
Lady’s Mantle is scientifically referred to as Alchemilla erythropoda is a beautiful perennial plant with red stems. It adds a visual appeal, but is also making it invasive.
The plant is identified by its semi-round with scalloped-edged leaves, it is found in late spring and the early summer. The stem’s red color in areas of sunshine.
You can limit the spread of this plant with the practice of pruning. It is also important to avoid self-seeding particularly in fertile and moist soil conditions.
Lady’s Mantle: Quick Identification Summary
| Plant Type | Herbaceous Perennial |
| Plant Size | Growth up to 20 cm |
| Flower Size | Small |
| Flower Timing | The beginning of summer |
| Flower Color | Green-yellow |
| Leaf Color | The stems are red with green. |
| Leaf Shape | Semi-round scalloped |
| Growth Rate | Late spring through early summer |
| Temperature Requirements | USDA Zones 3-8 and indoors during the winter frost |
| Invasive or Not | Invasive, self-seeds |
12. Bull Thistle (Cirsium Vulgare)
Image by and Credit to: Ron Clausen
The Bull Thistle is scientifically referred to as Echinops exaltatus is considered unwelcome because of its fast growth rate and capacity to compete with native plants. It is distinguished by its deeply red stem that is ribbed.
Its easy identification Its large, gray-green leaves, and round purple blooms.
To remove the plant, it is recommended to cut or mow off the plant prior to flowering, or apply herbicides when the levels of infestation are high.
Bull Thistle: Quick Identification Summary
| Plant Type | Perennial Weed |
| Plant Size | Up to 150 cm |
| Flower Size | Large, up to 5 cm |
| Flower Timing | Summer till early Autumn |
| Flower Color | Purple |
| Leaf Color | Grey-green |
| Leaf Shape | Spicy, large |
| Growth Rate | Fast |
| Temperature Requirements | The range is wide, and can withstand cold temperatures |
| Invasive or Not | Yes, it is invasive |
Conclusion
Enjoy the vibrant colors of nature by planting these weeds with a red stems, which add the color and distinctive aesthetics to your garden, and certain varieties offer an additional food source. It’s important to avoid species that isn’t suitable for households with pets or children. Be aware that your garden is a part of your living space. transform it into a paradise!
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are the most frequent concerns about weeds that have red stems:
What Type of Shrub Has a Bright Red Stem?
What Kind of Plant Comes With Red Stems?
What Type of Plant Comes With Heart-Shaped Leaves and Red Stems?
What Type of Plant Has a Red Stem and Large Leaves?
Why Are My Plant’s Stems Turning Red?
Featured and Pinterest images credit to: WikimediaImages
