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.

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. 

View header photo here.