Origin:
Native to the western United States.
Biology:
A perennial whose foliage dies in the winter, with re-growth from the roots in mid-spring. Reproduction is from seeds that have long, silky hairs attached that allow them to be spread by the wind. One of many species of tarweed in California in several genera, and most species have highly aromatic foliage. This particular species smells remarkably like mentholyptus. Plants are highly tolerant of dry, compacted soil, and are common along roadsides and in waste places.
Identification:
Mature plants usually no more than 3 feet tall and bushy, with multiple branches off the main stem. Stems are fibrous and tough, and stems and leaves are densely covered with long hairs. The leaves are very narrow and elongate, about 1.5 inches long and attached to the stem without stalks. They are alternate, with short stems arising from the axils of the leaves on the main stem. Flowers are yellow and small and do not open fully, with their base remaining enclosed in the very long calyx.
Characteristicts Important to Control:
Physical removal of dead plants may be needed where their roadside growth obstructs visibility. A systemic herbicide will effectively kill all plant parts, and a pre-emergent will effectively prevent seeds from germinating the following year.
