Friday, July 23, 2010

The spiky beauty of the spotted knapweed


Here is a portrait of the little item that may obliterate my meadow. It actually is quite pretty in bllom--giving the field a lavendar sheen. It secretes a chemical which makes it difficult for the seeds of other plants to sprout. Its stems are tough and woody. It is the bane of ranchers all over this country, ever since it hitched a ride fro the far east. It has a very deep carrot shaped root , making it quite easy to pull; where you pull it, dozens sprout, but I still cannot resist. I don't think I should give up without a fight.
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