Puncturevine – Invasive Weed

“Invasive Weeds” are non-native plants that crowd our native and desirable species important to Warm Springs People and Wildlife.

Puncturevine is a toxic, annual herb growing flat along the ground, from a woody taproot.  A serious weed in pastures, roadsides and cultivated fields, the spines of the fruit can cause damage to animals and people, strong enough to puncture bicycle tires.  The small yellow flowers are borne on short stalks.  Stems are numerous, up t o 6 feet long.  They form a dense mat.  It reproduces by seed and can be hand-pulled or controlled by hoeing, ideally prior to seed formation in the spring.

To learn more about controlling invasive weeds like Puncturevine – you can contact these local resources:  Suzie Miller at the Warm Springs Branch of Natural Resources (541-553-2007, [email protected]), Terry Stradley at the Warm Springs Branch of Natural Resources (541-553-2009, [email protected]), Todd Shockney at the Jefferson County Noxious Weed Department (541-475-4459 ext. 5325), Scott Duggan, Oregon State University Warm Springs Extension (541-553-3238,  [email protected])