Weed of the Month

Weed of the Month: Rush Skeletonweed

Rush Skeletonweed (Chondrilla juncea) is a member of the Sunflower (Asteraceae) family, but unlike many of the native plants in the sunflower family, skeletonweed is an invasive, noxious weed in Teton Valley. Also commonly called hogbite, gum succory, or devil’s grass, skeletonweed originates in Europe, Asia, and Northern Africa but has spread to many western united states, including Wyoming, Idaho, and Montana.

Weed of the Month: Hoary Cress

Hoary Cress, also known as whitetop, is a creeping perennial from Europe that spreads rapidly through both seeds and persistent roots. Identified by its lance-shaped leaves and dense clusters of small white flowers, this invasive plant thrives in various habitats including fields, meadows, and roadsides. Its aggressive growth outcompetes native vegetation, posing significant challenges for effective management, which typically involves a combination of prevention, mechanical, and herbicide-based strategies.

Weed of the Month: Black Henbane

Black Henbane, otherwise known as Hogbean, Devil’s Eyes, and Stinking Nightshade, is an invasive plant that is also highly toxic. Its presence is widespread throughout the United States and here in Wyoming. This coarse and sticky plant can be most commonly found next to fence rows, bordering pastures, and along roadsides. It’s harmful to animals, humans, and the ecosystem as a whole.

Weed of the Month: Saltcedar

Saltcedar, an invasive and adaptable shrub, has been known to take over Western riverbanks, threatening native ecosystems with its aggressive growth and water-depleting nature. Its wispy appearance and deep pink flowers may charm, but the havoc it wreaks on wildlife biodiversity demands urgent attention and control.

Weed of the Month: Eurasian Watermilfoil

Eurasian Watermilfoil is an aquatic invasive plant that’s considered a priority one species in Teton county. This means that there is no known infestation and it is a considerable concern of ours. It spreads locally by rhizomes, stem fragments, and seeds, and can be spread to other bodies of water as vegetative material attached to watercraft and equipment.

Weed of the Month: Yellow Toadflax

Yellow toadflax is our weed of the month because it’s complex root system can threaten native plant species in Teton County if not detected early on.

Weed of the Month: Russian Olive

Russian Olive trees were introduced to the U.S. for landscaping aesthetics, to stave off erosion, to provide pollen for honey bees, and to block snow and wind. However, they are a threat to our river corridors because they form dense, impenetrable stands that choke out native vegetation like willows and cottonwoods.

Weed of the Month: Cheatgrass

Cheatgrass is an invasive plant to Wyoming but native to Europe and southwestern Asia. This plant is a huge problem because it tends to grow across large areas and is quickly changing Wyoming native plant composition.

Weed of the Month: Baby's Breath

August was prime wedding season here in Jackson. Between May and October, Teton County sees numerous destination weddings, elopements, and other special occasions. While these events are moments of celebration for most people, they can also be the source of invasive plant infestations. Even if you’ve never heard of baby’s breath you’ve probably seen it in a bouquet before.