Weed Identification

Weeds in Alberta are regulated into two groups:

1. Prohibited noxious: These weeds are highly invasive, cause damage to the crops and destroy the whole ecosystem. This  must be eradicated by killing off the plant’s reproductive and growing parts.  

2. Noxious: These weeds must be controlled by preventing their spread and are too numerous to be eradicated. 

An additional, non-regulated category is called “nuisance weeds.” The most common nuisance weed  is the Dandelion. Properties infested with this weed, along with tall grasses could still be cited as unsightly by the City of Beaumont if these vegetation is over 6 inches tall. 

Weed Species


Removal

Scentless Chamomile (noxious)
Flowers are composed of a yellow central disk, surrounded by white petals. Leaves are eltername and finely divided into short segments (carrot-like) and odorless when crushed. 

Beaumont weed 1Removal tips

White Cockle (noxious)
Stems are hairy and can grow up to 30-120 cm tall. Flowers are numerous, fragrant and arranged in spreading clusters. 


Beaumont weed 2Removal tips

Canada thistle (noxious)   
Stems are hollow with purple, pink or white flowers that grow in clusters. 


Beaumont weed 3Removal tips

Himalayan balsam (prohibited noxious)
Stems are smooth and can grow up to 3 metres tall. Flowers are long in various shades of pink 


Beaumont weed 4Removal tips


For a list of invasive species fact sheets and more information on invasive plants in Alberta, visit the Alberta Invasive Species Council.