This pretty plant with yellow flowers is highly toxic. It should not be ignored. If you see it in your garden, act quickly to get rid of it, taking the necessary precautions.
Not all plants are welcome in your garden, and some can be dangerous. Such is the case with this plant with pretty yellow flowers called ragwort. Although it may appear harmless at first glance, it is fearsomely toxic! If you spot it in your garden, it’s vital to get rid of it quickly and carefully. It is a highly invasive plant.
There are over 1,500 species of ragwort worldwide.
In Europe, ragwort and groundsel are common. Ragwort, one of the most common species, can reach up to one metre in height. It has upright stems, deeply dissected leaves and its yellow flowers appear from May to October. The smaller ragwort can be recognised by its lobed leaves and bright yellow flower heads.
At first glance, this plant does not seem alarming. It has small yellow flowers, reminiscent of those of the dandelion. But behind this harmless appearance lies a dangerous substance: pyrrolizidine alkaloids. These are toxic compounds present in all parts of the plant: roots, stems, leaves and flowers. They can cause serious liver damage. Long-term ingestion, even in small quantities, can cause serious liver disease, and can even be fatal.
The toxicity of ragwort is not limited to humans and pets. Grazing animals such as horses, cows and sheep can be poisoned by eating this plant. The effects are often cumulative, which means that symptoms may appear late, after several ingestions. Signs of poisoning include weight loss, lethargy, neurological disorders and digestive problems.
The plant often grows along roadsides and in neglected fields and gardens. Beware, the plant is invasive, a single plant can produce thousands of seeds, which are easily spread by the wind, and can reach your garden. If you’re not careful, it can quickly colonise an entire garden.
If you spot ragwort in your garden, don’t wait to take action.
The first piece of advice is to never handle this plant with your bare hands. The pyrrolizidine alkaloids can be absorbed through the skin. Here are a few steps to get rid of it safely:
- Pull up the plant. It’s important to remove the plant with its roots, as it can grow back if it’s simply cut. You can use a hand weeder to ensure that no root residue remains in the soil.
- Dispose of it properly. Don’t compost it, as the toxins can contaminate the soil. Dispose of it in airtight bags, then in the household rubbish.
- Watch for its return. Groundsel spreads quickly. Keep an eye on your garden to prevent it re-establishing itself.
