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DESCRIPTION:
Russian knapweed is a widely distributed perennial broadlfeaf plant. Coytledons (seed leaves) are egg-shaped with
a scaly coating on the lower surface. First true leaves are pointed and covered with a white powdery coating. Leaves vary
from deeply lobed basal leaves to stalkless, blue-green, narrow upper leaves with smooth or toothed margins. Mature, thistle-shaped
plant is 1 to 3 feet (30 - 90 cm) tall, erect and has many branches. Leafy branches have rose-pink to lavender-colored terminal
flower heads. This weed reproduces through seeds and from deep, dark underground
rootstocks. Rooting from creeping underground stems (rhizomes), knapweed forms dense patches that infest
orchards, vineyards, and roadsides. It is reported to be toxic to sheep,
cattle, and horses and is a California class B noxious weed.
Broadleaf ID illustration.
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