July’s Weed of the Month is Houndstongue!
Beware the houndstongue—it’s a toxic invader that takes over roadsides, rangelands, and logged forests.
In its first year, it grows quietly with a low-lying rosette of big, hairy leaves. By the second year, it sprouts a fuzzy stem that can reach 1-4 feet high. From May to July, it displays clusters of 5-petaled flowers in shades of red to burgundy.
Its seeds are teardrop-shaped troublemakers, covered in tiny, hooked burrs that love to hitch a ride. Beware: This plant is highly toxic, whether fresh or dried, harmful to deer and livestock by damaging their liver cells.
Be sure to wear gloves, yank out that entire taproot, bag it up and toss it in the garbage! Check out our flyer for more information!
