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CITY AND COUNTY OF BROOMFIELD PARK OPERATIONS

NOXIOUS WEED IDENTIFICATION


DAME'S ROCKET, Hesperis matronalis

                                       

Characteristics:

Family: Mustard

Origin: Europe

Description:

  • Perennial or biennial
  • Height: 1 1/2 - 4 feet

Flowers:

  • Pink, lavender or sometimes white
  • Bloom occurs April-July
  • Form showy clusters

Leaves:

  • Lower leaves range from 3-8 inches becoming progressively smaller towards the flower
  • Lance shaped

Stem:

  • Usually single stemmed
  • Erect in structure
  • Hairy

Seeds:

  • Reproduces by seed
  • 2mm wide

Discussion:

    It is illegal to purchase this plant or its seeds in the State of Colorado.  Wildflower seed mixes often contain Dame's Rocket seeds so read list of contents prior to planting.  This ornamental flower has created problems once it escapes into native areas, especially riparian zones.  It is invasive, displaces native plants and is unpalatable to wildlife.  Once established, it quickly dominates the plant community in which it thrives.


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