Spotted knapweed is a serious threat to the rangelands of the western United States. It was probably introduced to North America from Europe as a contaminant in alfalfa seed or in ships\’ ballast. A common invasive weed in much of Montana, Spotted knapweed grows best along ditches, field margins, over-grazed pastures, and in disturbed dry, […]
Another member of the mustard family, Whitetop is a long-lived perennial that spreads by creeping roots and a prolific seed base. It grows up to two feet in height. It is often confused with Hoary Alyssum. While Hoary Alyssum generally produces a long stem with small elongated leaves and two to three branches each with
This biennial plan reproduces from seeds only and lives for two years. Each plant can produce 2000 seeds per year. The sticky burr seed pods, also called beggars lice, are easily spread by wildlife and livestock. Rosettes of dark green, hairy leaves begin appearing in April and May with the plant flowering by July. 1-4’
This is an extremely common weed in Montana and one that can be hard to eradicate. The plant has an extensive root system descending over 15 feet deep in the soil. It puts out horizontal root runners which are the number one method of spreading. Each plant also produces over 1500 seeds per flower which