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BLACK HENBANE
Black Henbane, a member of the nightshade family, is an annual or biennial plant that grows up to 3 feet tall. It spreads by seeds and is found in a wide range of environmental conditions. Black henbane produces huge amounts of seed, 10,000 to half a million per plant. As few as 10 to 20 seeds is enough to poison a child. All parts of the plant are toxic. Black henbane contains alkaloids, which have caused occasional livestock poisoning. The plant is usually not grazed, when desirable vegetation is present.
Control
Mechanical: Mature henbane is difficult to mow, due to its thick stem. It can be removed with a shovel. If seedpods are present, assure the plant is disposed of properly to avoid further seed dispersal.
Herbicide: This department has seen good results in rangeland, pastures, and other non-crop areas by applying products containing metsulfuron, picloram, dicamba, or 2,4-D at the rosette to bolt stage, before flower. Picloram is a "restricted use" product and can only be applied by a licensed applicator.
When choosing any kind of control method, assure that your choice is suited for your particular situation. Always read and follow the entire product label before applying any herbicide. |