Boerhavia coccinea, commonly known as tar vine or scarlet spiderling, is a perennial herb native to arid and semi-arid regions, including parts of the Americas, Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, the Indian subcontinent, and Australia. It often thrives in disturbed areas such as roadsides and wastelands. This plant typically sprawls across the ground with stems that can exceed a meter in length. The stems are somewhat hairy and sticky, which helps the plant adhere to other vegetation. The leaves are oval-shaped, and the plant produces small, frilly flowers that are often bright scarlet to red-violet, adding a splash of color to its surroundings. Flowering occurs throughout the warm season, depending on the local climate.

Boerhavia coccinea is valued for its medicinal properties in several cultures, where it is used to treat a variety of ailments. It is also consumed as a leafy vegetable and used as animal fodder, making it a versatile plant in regions where it grows. In cultivation, it requires minimal care, thriving in full sun and tolerating a range of soil types, provided they are well-drained. While not commonly cultivated in gardens, it can be used as ground cover in xeriscaping or naturalized areas. Gardeners should be aware that in some regions, it may become weedy and potentially invasive. It has been found to become invasive in many regions worldwide, with range expansion noted in Australia.CC BY-SA 4.0