Rush skeletonweed
About This Species
Rush skeletonweed (Gum succory, Devil’s grass, Nakedweed) is a perennial plant that invades rangelands, roadsides and disturbed areas. It was unintentionally introduced from its native range in Europe and Asia. It competes with other plants for soil moisture and nutrients. Plants may produce up to 20,000 seeds per year, that can travel easily with wind and water, as well as on animals, humans and machinery such as a farming equipment. This plant also spreads by horizontal roots. Rush skeletonweed is designated as a Provincial Noxious Weed by the BC Weed Control Act, as well as a Provincial Containment species by the BC Provincial Priority Invasive Species List.
How to Identify
Rush skeletonweed grows up to 1.3 m tall, and has many wiry, branched stems that have reddish, down-turned hairs at the base.
It has small yellow flowers that are flat and toothed across the end.
Barely visible narrow leaves give this plant a skeleton-like appearance.
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Take Action
Hand-pulling can be used on small infestations, but repeated treatments will likely be necessary due to the plant’s extensive root system.
Note that cutting and mowing Rush skeletonweed is ineffective.
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If you need advice about invasive species on your property or you are concerned about reported invasives in your local area, contact your local government or regional invasive species organization.
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