Skeleton weed
Chondrilla juncea
Origin. Eurasia.
Distribution in Canberra Region. Widespread, especially in disturbed, pasture and woodland areas.
Dispersal. Wind, machinery, animals and water.
General Description and Biology
A perennial weed, up to 1 m high, consisting mainly of multiple branching stems.
Rosette leaves are like those of dandelion; leaves on flowering stems are small and linear.
There is an extensive root system.
Florets are yellow, in axillary positions or on short stems.
The weed tends to grow in clumps.
Control Methods
a.Manual
Cutting or pulling off stems or even digging out roots tends to promote the growth of new shoots and rosettes from existing lateral roots 7-15 cm below the ground.
Therefore resist the temptation to cut them off or pull them out.
b.Chemical
This is the only effective method. Cut off the stem and apply a herbicide (contact CNP/CUPP).
For large infestations boom-spraying with specific herbicides is feasible.