Origin:
Native to Florida, from which it has been introduced to other areas, and now occurs from Virginia to Texas.
Biology:
This is an extremely common roadside weed in the spring. It is a perennial which reproduces from seeds, but also more commonly from underground tubers. It is invasive in turf and landscape, and may be transported with commercial potted plants.
Identification:
Mature plants may grow one to two feet all, with an erect flowering stalk. There may be numerous branches originating near the soil or from underground stems, and a large, distinctive tuber is white and in the shape of a rattlesnake rattle. Leaves are opposite, and leaves and stems are covered with short, soft hairs. The leaves are lance-shaped and have toothed margins. The flowers are white to pink with the petals joined together at their bases, and creating an irregular shape.
Characteristicts Important to Control:
Due to the reproductive capabilities of the underground parts, a systemic herbicide will be most effective in controlling this weed, and even then may not affect the tubers. Fumigation is often used for ensuring elimination of the plants.
