Rush Skeletonweed
Rush skeletonweed (Chondrilla juncea) is a non-native invasive plant originally from Southern Europe. A member of the daisy family (Asteraceae) it gets its common name because of its spindly, almost leafless branched stems at maturity.
Rush skeletonweed can spread rapidly and is very difficult to eradicate once established. It is highly competitive for water and nutrients. In wildland areas, rush skeletonweed can displace native vegetation, diminish preferred rangeland forage, and reduce plant and animal biodiversity. In agricultural settings, the tough persistent flowerstems hamper harvesting equipment and reduce crop yields.
Rush skeletonweed is also a pest in Australia where this image was taken.
Photo Credit: Government of Western Australia, Department of Agriculture and Food
What to look for:
- Bright yellow flowers less than one inch wide, have strap-shaped petals that are flat across the end with distinct lobes or teeth
- Spindly, almost leafless branched stems at maturity
