What Is a Weed? Definition and Common Traits

What Is a Weed? Definition and Common Traits

A gardener asks for the true definition of a weed: a classification or any unwanted plant?

Broad Definition

A weed is any plant growing where it is not wanted. This is the broadest, most practical definition.

Typical Weed Characteristics

Plants commonly called weeds share traits:

• Produce huge quantities of seed.
• Seeds remain viable many years.
• Short reproductive cycle (fast generation time).
• Thrive in diverse conditions.
• Spread aggressively via stolons, rhizomes, or root fragments.

These traits make them successful colonizers of disturbed ground.