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Extension > Garden > Diagnose a problem > Is this plant a weed? > Broadleaf Weeds > Upright > Perennial Sowthistle

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Perennial Sowthistle

Sonchus arvensis L.

  • Image: broadleaf Plantain
  • Image: broadleaf Plantain
  • Image: broadleaf Plantain
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Found in:

  • Prairie plantings

Characteristics:

  • Perennial that reaches a height of 3-7’
  • Upright stems are smooth, with or without hair, and contain a milky sap (latex)
  • Leaves along the stem are 4-8” long, irregularly toothed, lobed, and have spiny edges
  • Flower heads are bright yellow, produced in clusters and occur June through Aug
  • Roots grow deep into the soil along with vigorous spreading rhizomes (underground stems)

Significance:

Plants that look similar:

More information and control options for Perennial Sowthistle

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