Snakeweed

Gutierrezia sarothrae

Gutierrezia sarothrae, commonly known as broom snakeweed or matchweed, is a flowering shrub in the Asteraceae family. It is native to North America and is particularly common in arid and semi-arid regions. Broom snakeweed is known for its distinctive appearance, adaptability to harsh environmental conditions, and its ecological role in providing forage for wildlife.

Description:

  • Growth Form: Broom snakeweed is a small to medium-sized shrub, typically reaching heights of 30 to 90 centimeters (12 to 36 inches). It has many branches and a bushy appearance.

  • Leaves: The leaves are small, linear to needle-like, and are arranged alternately along the stems. The leaves may have a resinous or sticky feel.

  • Flowers: The small yellow flowers are daisy-like and form in dense clusters at the ends of the branches. Flowering typically occurs in late summer and early fall.

  • Stems: The stems are slender, wiry, and often reddish-brown. They give the plant a broom-like or brushy appearance.

  • Habitat: Broom snakeweed is adapted to arid and semi-arid habitats, including grasslands, deserts, and open areas. It is commonly found in sandy or rocky soils.

Identification:

Identifying Gutierrezia sarothrae involves recognizing its key features:

  1. Broom-Like Appearance: The numerous branches and slender stems give the plant a broom-like appearance.

  2. Needle-Like Leaves: The leaves are small, narrow, and needle-like, giving the shrub a fine-textured look.

  3. Yellow Daisy-Like Flowers: The small yellow flowers are arranged in dense clusters, resembling daisies.

  4. Resinous Feel: The leaves may have a sticky or resinous feel when touched.

Ecological Significance:

Broom snakeweed has ecological significance in its native habitats:

  • Wildlife Forage: The plant is an important forage source for wildlife, including browsing animals such as deer and livestock, as well as insects.

  • Soil Stabilization: Its deep root system helps stabilize soil in arid environments, preventing erosion.

Management:

In certain contexts, such as in rangelands or areas where it may interfere with desirable vegetation, management of broom snakeweed may be considered:

  1. Grazing Management: Proper grazing management can help control the spread of broom snakeweed by optimizing forage availability for livestock.

  2. Mechanical Control: Mechanical methods, such as mowing or cutting, can be used to reduce the height of the shrub and control its spread.

  3. Prescribed Burning: Controlled or prescribed burning may be used in some cases to manage the density of broom snakeweed.

  4. Herbicides: Selective herbicides may be used for targeted control, but careful consideration is needed to avoid harm to desirable vegetation.