Identifying a Tall Compositae Weed in North Dakota

A 1–1.2 m (3.5–4 ft) plant with small buds on stem tips, appearing spontaneously in flower beds in central North Dakota, is likely a member of the Asteraceae (Compositae) family—common weeds include Erigeron (fleabane), Solidago (goldenrod), or Conyza (horseweed).

Identification Steps

1. Wait for flowers to open—key for ID.
2. Photograph whole plant, leaf arrangement, and flower close-up.
3. Compare to USDA Plants Database or use iNaturalist/Seek app.
4. Contact NDSU Extension for local weed ID help.

Management

• If desirable native: leave or transplant to wild area.
• If invasive weed: pull before seed set; remove taproot.
• Mulch beds to suppress future volunteers.

Most Compositae weeds are annuals or biennials; preventing seed production breaks the cycle.