Bristly Ox Tongue

Common name: Bristly Ox Tongue

Botanical name: Picris echioides

Family: Asteraceae

Life cycle: Annual or Biennial

Habitat: Bristly ox tongue is very common on waste areas, grassland and occasionally on lawns. In turf it forms as a lowing growing rosette type weed and will grow in most types of soil.

Leaf: The narrow lanceolate leaves are covered in swollen pimples of bristles (hence the name of this plant).

Flower: Bristly ox tongue produces multiple dandelion like flowers. The yellow flowers can be seen between June and September.

Removal & control: Individual plants can be removed by hand. Encourage a healthy lawn with adequate feeding and good lawn care practices.

A selective weed killer can be used, however a second treatment may be needed for complete control.