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Texas broomweed

Scientific Name: Amphiachyris amoena

Family: Asteraceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Annual

Other Names:

       

Broomweed: A Texas Rangeland Resident

Quirky Facts

  • Broomweed is considered the bane of livestock ranchers in Texas due to its potential to dominate pastures.
  • Historically, broomweed has been associated with overgrazing, indicating its prevalence in disturbed ecosystems.
  • Some species of broomweed were used as kindling, hence the common name \"Kindling Weed.\"

Considerations for Pets

  • Perennial broomweed is mentioned as a toxic plant, particularly during its early growth stages (late winter or early spring). The specific toxin is not identified in the provided text.

Considerations for Children

  • No specific information is available in the provided text.

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

  • Common Names: Broomweed, Prairie Broomweed, Texas Broomweed, Matchbush, Matchweed, Kindling Weed
  • The name \"Broomweed\" refers to several species, notably within the genus Amphiachyris.
  • Scientific Name(s):
    • Amphiachyris amoena (Texas Broomweed)
    • Amphiachyris dracunculoides (Prairie Broomweed, Annual Broomweed)
    • Gutierrezia texana (Texas Broomweed)
  • Family: Asteraceae (Daisy or Sunflower Family)
  • Genus: Amphiachyris, Gutierrezia
  • Amphiachyris is a genus of flowering plants in the daisy family, Asteraceae.

Distribution and Habitat

  • Broomweed is found in dry ranges and deserts.
  • Geographic Range: California to Texas, south to Mexico, and north to Idaho. Particularly prevalent in Texas, especially central and north-central Texas, including the Cross Timbers region.

Ecological Role and Invasive Potential

  • Broomweed can dominate native pastures, especially in overgrazed areas.
  • Mentioned as a perennial weed, suggesting its potential to be problematic in agricultural settings.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Annual broomweed has a single stem growing 15 to 30 inches tall and branches near the top.
  • Perennial broomweed is short-lived.
  • In the fall, broomweed forms a canopy, which can rob the soil of all the nutrients.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • Broomweed is grazed by livestock, though it is also mentioned as toxic to livestock at certain growth stages.
  • Certain insects infest the roots of broomweed, potentially offering some level of competition.
  • Broomweed and snakeweed are the only hosts for some insect larvae in central Texas.

Further Information

  • Texas A&ampM AgriLife Extension provides resources on controlling common broomweed.
  • Research on broomweed has been funded by the USDA-NRICGP Agricultural Systems Grants and Texas AgriLife Research.
  • The Fredericksburg Nature Center in Fredericksburg, TX, is a location where broomweed can be observed.