Extension > Garden > Diagnose a problem > Is this plant a weed? > Broadleaf Weeds > Basal > Perennial Sowthistle
Perennial Sowthistle
Sonchus arvensis L.
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Found in:
- Prairie and landscape 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:
- Minnesota Primary Noxious Weed that spreads rapidly and aggressively
Plants that look similar:
- Dandelion (leaves, latex)
- Annual Sowthistle
- Prickly Lettuce
