Perennial Pepperweed (Lepidium latifolium)
2A, common in isolated areas of Montana
Quick ID
- Enlarged roots at the soil surface form a woody crown and stem base
- Dark green, glossy leaves
- Bright green-gray, waxy leaves with a distinct white mid-vein; Upper leaves have no stalk; directly attach to stem, but do not clasp it
- Small, white, 4-petaled, densely clustered flowers
- Height of one to three feet but can reach eight feet in wet areas
Perennial Pepperweed
Video Information
Weed Images
Weed Specifications
| Type | Information |
|---|---|
| Toxicity | Could pose a threat to livestock. |
| Best Management Practices | Prevent establishment; hand pulling, grazing and herbicide are effective when integrated together. |
| Habitat | Along rivers, riparian zones, waste areas, ditches, roadsides, pastures and residential areas. |
| Root | Deep, spreading roots. |
| Leaves | Oblong to lance-shaped with toothed edges. |
| Lifespan | Perennial; two years or longer. |
| Similar Looking Plants | Whitetop (hoary cress), hoary alyssum and pennycress. |
| Important Information | This plant is commonly found in floral arrangements, therefore can be found invading cemeteries and landfills. It is primarily invasive in riparian areas or wetlands and can produce more than six billion seeds per acre of infestation. |
