Why is it a problem?
- Seeds viable in soil for 5 years
- 3-foot long taproots and reproduces by underground rhizomes (lateral roots)
- Seeds & roots stick to equipment and spread via contaminated topsoil
- Aggressively climbs fences, structures and trees
- “Strangles” native alder, willow, and herbaceous plants, outcompeting them for sunlight and water
- Found on roadsides, trails, and hay fields
- Alters pollinator visitation to native species
How do I manage this plant?
- Avoid importing topsoil / ask topsoil providers about invasive plant contamination
- Clean equipment before moving it out of a known contaminated site
- Mow and hand pull before seeds mature—multiple
