Goatsrue

BACKGROUND: Native to Europe, goatsrue is found in wetlands, along waterways and roads, in pastures, and cropland. It is unpalatable and highly toxic to livestock, and can form dense stands. Goatsrue is a designated federal noxious weed.

DESCRIPTION : A tap-rooted herbaceous perennial with hollow stems that grows up to 5 feet tall. Compound leaves branch off the stems, having 9-15 leaflets each. Light purplish-white, pea-like flowers are borne in clusters at stem tips. Flowers bloom throughout the summer and produce tiny, narrow, elongated seed capsules. Each plant can produce up to 135,000 seeds. Seeds are dispersed in waterways, as a contaminant in seed, and on farm or construction equipment. Seeds can remain viable for up to 10 years.

CONTROL: Crop rotation, deep tilling, and digging are recommended for control. Herbicides can be effective.