Weed of the Weed

September 25th 2006

Spiny Sowthistle, Sonchus asper, (L.) Hill

              

 

Characteristics:

Family: Asteraceae (Sunflower family)

Origin: Europe

Description:

• Annual
• Stout and erect, fleshy leaves and stems
• Flowers from June-October

Stems:

• 1-5 feet, multi-branched
• When damaged, it bleeds a milky juice
• It is very difficult to hand pull as the stem breaks easily

Flowers:

• Yellow, 3/4 - 1 inch in diameter
• Just before blooming the flower bud looks like a "Sorry!" game piece
• After opening, flowers appear like a carnation

Leaves:

• Leaves are lobed, toothed, spiny and fleshy
• Basal leaves may be reddish or brown
• Leaves clasp the stem

Location:

    Spiny Sowthistle is often found along roadways, yards, cultivated areas, landscapes and in waste areas.  This weed is not considered a noxious weed.  To many gardeners it is more of a nuisance weed.  It loves wet areas.  When removing this plant, make sure all of the root is removed, or it will grow back.  Sowthistle produces many seeds and grows very quickly, making eradication difficult.

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