Once upon a time, this herb was known as Borreria laevis. The merger of the genus Borreria and Spermacoce changed its name to Spermacoce laevis. Apparently, the type specimen that was used to identify Borreria laevis was a different plant. As a result, the name Borreria laevis is no longer valid. It was taken over by Spermacoce assurgens [1].

Since Spermacoce assurgens is now considered as a synonym of Spermacoce remota based on the information from the Plant List website, I have used this name. However, Spermacoce laevis is still being listed as an accepted name in the Plant List website.

Reference:

[1] Ward DB. Keys to the flora of Florida - 29, Spermacoce (Rubiaceae). Phytologia 2011;93(3):275-282. | Read article |