Origin
Madagascar
Ecological Impact
Listed as a Category II invasive species for central and south Florida by the Florida Invasive Species Council. It impacts coastal uplands, floodplain wetlands, mesic and xeric uplands. The common name mother-of-millions indicates this plants tendency to spread widely, both by seed and by leaves forming roots to create new plants.
Description
Succulent, perennial herb to 1.5 m tall. The stems are hollow, fleshy, dark green. Leaves are scalloped and red along margins. Flowers are bell-like and pendulous1.
Identification Tips
The hanging flowers are balloon-like, creamy at the top and shading to a rosy pink below.
History
Introduced as an ornamental landscape plant. Worldwide used as medicinal plant for its antipyretic and anti-inflammatory properties.
Florida Range
Statewide
Prevention/Management Strategies
New plants can root where leaves touch soil, so when mechanically removing plants, be sure to remove all plant material. A foliar treatment of 5% glyphosate can be used for chemical control1.
References
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Invasive Plant Directory. https://www.fnai.org/species-communities/invasives/invasives. Accessed Sept. 7, 2025. Florida Natural Areas Inventory, Florida State University, Tallahassee.