Weld County Weed Division is releasing tips to identify a new noxious weed, Rush Skeletonweed, which is spreading, according to a May 27 news release.
“Early reporting is helpful, and we appreciate residents keeping an eye out and sending photos,” said Tina Booton, Weld County Weed Division Supervisor. “But several yellow flowers — prickly lettuce, snowthistle, dandelion-type plants, and other roadside mustards — look similar to rush skeletonweed, so we want to share some specific characteristics of the plant to help identify it.”
Because many weeds resemble skeletonweed, the weed division offers tips to help land and property owners to spot it.
Small flowers, appears leafless
The plant has thin, wiry, branching stems that can look almost leafless. Its yellow flowers are usually small and dandelion-like, with seven to 15 petals. When broken, the plant exudes a milky sap, according to officials.
One of the best identifying characteristics is the presence of coarse, downward-pointing hairs near the lower part of the stem. Other plants, such as yellow mustards, have more obvious flower patterns and a different flower shape with four petals…