Blue Mountains National Resources Institute

Wanted: DEAD!

Dalmatian Toadflax

• Stems: Reaching 3 feet. Densely leafed.
• Leaves: Alternate, entire, lower leaves narrow at base, middle and upper leaves conspicuously broad-based. Leaves are heart shaped, green, and waxy. They grow 1-3 inches long.
• Flowers: Borne in the axils of the upper leaves. Flowers are 1 inch long, with an extra 1/2-inch spur, yellow with an orange bearded throat. Flowering occurs between May and August.
• Fruits: Two-celled capsules containing many irregular seeds.

Dalmatian toadflax is a perennial that grows from a branching woody base. Originally native to southwestern Europe, it was introduced to the United States as an ornamental plant. It is difficult to control owing to an extensive root system.

Control should be geared toward preventing spread.

• Mechanical: Individual plants can be pulled, as long as all lateral roots are removed as well.
• Chemical: Herbicides applied in early spring before bloom helps. Contact you local weed control office for more information.
• Biological: Cultivation in early June, repeated frequently with new growth is helpful. Seeding fall grass crops and cultivation after the second year is effective.

Report all sightings to your local Weed Board