Weed of the Week

10-31-2007

Rush Skeletonweed, Chodrilla juncea

           

Photo Courtesy of: Utah State University Archive, United States

Contact: Steve Dewey, Utah State University

 Characteristics:

 

Family: Asteracea (Sunflower family)

Origin: Europe and Asia

Description:

• Perennial
• 1-4 feet tall

Stems

• Course downward bent hairs at base
• Smooth stems above

Flowers

• Scattered on the branches
• 3/4” in Diameter
• Yellow, 7-15 star shaped petals
• Flowering occurs mid-July through frost

Leaves

• On the stem inconspicuous and entire
• Lower leaves similar to dandelion (Rosettes appear the same)
• Exudes milky white substance when cut

Fruits

• Pale brown to nearly black
• 1/8” long
• Smooth with several ribs
• Terminated by long beak with soft white bristles

Additional information:

            Rush skeletonweed is a major problem inhabiting several million acres in Idaho, Oregon, Washington and California. It likes well-drained light textured soils along roadsides, range and pasturelands. Soil disturbance aids in spread. An extensive deep root system makes Rush Skeletonweed difficult to control.

---

Return to Weed of the Week Page

Return to Park Operations Page

---