Identification and Reproduction

Identification 

• Goutweed is a creeping perennial in the Apiaceae, or carrot, family.
• Stems will grow up to one metre and leaves will form a dense canopy.
• Cultivated varieties often have variegated leaves (white edges), but can also revert back to solid green. Leaves are compound, toothed and arranged in an alternate pattern. 

• It has flat, umbrella-like clusters of small white flowers. Blooms occur in June. 

Reproduction

It spreads vegetatively by rhizomes and will regrow from severed roots.

White Umbel Identification Points

Compare identifications points for common white umbel plants: White Umbel Plant ID Points

Habitat & Ecology

Goutweed is most aggressive in moist and partial shade areas. It invades deciduous woodlands, riparian areas, wetlands and grasslands. 

Impacts

• It can impede the growth of native plants, including tree seedling germination.
• Goutweed invades forests, pastures, and disturbed sites.

Management

Mechanical/Manual Control: 

• Mechanical removal is not effective as any broken rhizome will re-establish. 
• A combination of mowing and applying a tarp to restrict sunlight will help suffocate and kill this plant. Surface covers should be left for at least 2 weeks. 

Chemical Control:

• Chemical applications are effective on young plants but mature infestations may be resistant.

Resources

For more information check out the USDA Aegopodium podagraria page here. 

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