About Phyllanthus tenellus Roxb.
This species, scientifically named Phyllanthus tenellus Roxb., reaches a mature height of 20 to 50 cm (7.9 to 19.7 inches). It follows the characteristic phyllanthoid branching pattern: the main stem does not produce true leaves, and instead bears small scales, while flowers and true leaves grow on secondary stems. Its flowers are small, inconspicuous, and unisexual, with both male and female flowers occurring on the same individual plant. P. tenellus is confirmed native to the Mascarene Islands. It may also be native to eastern Africa, other western Indian Ocean islands, and the Arabian Peninsula. It has become a naturalized weed across many tropical and subtropical regions, including Australia, Mexico, South America, Eastern North America (spanning from Florida to Virginia and west to California), the Mediterranean region, parts of Asia, and the West Indies.
