Weed of the Week

June 5th 2006

Dame's Rocket, Hesperis matronalis

                               

 

 

Characteristics

Family: Mustard

Origin: Europe

Description:

• Perennial or biennial.
• Height: 1 1/2 - 4 feet.

Flowers:

• Pink, lavender or sometimes white.
• Bloom occurs April-July.
• Form showy clusters.

Leaves:

• Lower leaves range from 3-8 inches becoming progressively smaller towards the flower.
• Lance shaped.

Stem:

• Usually single stemmed.
• Erect in structure.
• Hairy.

Seeds:

• Reproduces by seed.
• 2mm wide.

Discussion:

    It is illegal to purchase this plant or its seeds in the State of Colorado.  Wildflower seed mixes often contain Dame's Rocket seeds so read list of contents prior to planting.  This ornamental flower has created problems once it escapes into native areas, especially riparian zones.  It is invasive, displaces native plants and is unpalatable to wildlife.  Once established, it quickly dominates the plant community in which it thrives.

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