Fatoua villosa (Thunb.) Nakai

Hairy Crabweed; Mulberry Weed; Foolish Weed

Herb

Annual

Vascular

Hairy Crabweed is an introduced herbaceous annual in the Mulberry family (Moraceae). It is found in flower beds, around shrubs, in vacant lots, on roadsides, and in wetlands. Hairy Crabweed was first reported from North America from Louisiana in 1964. It has spread rapidly, apparently as a hitch hiker in potted plants purchased from nurseries. It is often frequent in and around greenhouses and where plants are sold. Hairy Crabweed grows from a few inches to over three feet in height. It has alternate triangular or heart shaped leaves with serrate margins. The flowers are produced in dense roundish cymes. The flowers lack petals. Hairy Crabweed produces abundant crops of very small seed. Always check any nursery stock before you purchase it for unwanted weed. If you have Hairy Crabweed already, try to control it. Pull up any plants you find and either burn them or double bag them in plastic bags and put them in the trash. A thick mulch around you plants will prevent the seed of Hairy Crabweed from germinating. Pre-emergent herbicides and non-selective herbicides can also be used to control this pest. You can consult with your county Extension Agent for recommendations.--A. Diamond

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Not Native

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