Identification and Reproduction

Identification

• Perennial plant with an extensitve root system.
• Yellow flowers resemble snapdragons, leaves are heart-shaped.
• Leaves are pale green, rubbery, alternate and clasp to the stem. 
• Has milky sap.

Reproduction

• This plant may have dozens of flowering stems so it is a very prolific seeder (up to 500,000 annually). Seeds are spread by wind, animals, and people.
• It spreads by lateral roots as well.
• Vertical roots may extend down 2 meters.

Habitat & Ecology

• Invades forest plantations, pastures, hay fields, grasslands, fields and disturbed sites.
• Dalmatian toadlfax prefers coarse soils.
• Survives as a root crown through winters.

Impacts

Social:

• Poisonous to livestock. 

Ecological:

• Competes and displaces native forage species, as well as native grasses and wildflowers. 

Management

Mechanical/Manual Control:

• Small patches or individual plants can easily be dug up. 
• Ensure that all root fragments are collected to prevent regrowth. 
• Avoiding mowing or burning as this will encourage growth. 

Biological Control:

• Does have natural enemies, including a beetle, moths and several weevils. They attack and feed on the shoots, leaves and roots. Often in larvae form they will feed and slowly kill the plant. 

Resources

• Datasheet on Dalmatian Toadflax: CABI Compendium
• Dalmatian toadflax identification and control: King County
  • Note that this is a US site, Canadian guidelines and reguations may differ. Be sure to read product and chemical labels prior to use. 

Header photo (Stefan Lefnaer).