2010 Oregon Invasive Species Council calendar events
What is purple and Ibserian Starthistle
Purple and Iberian starthistles are noxious weeds that may infest range, pasture, and roadsides in the Pacific Northwest. They are clasified as "A" rated weeds by the state of Oregon, meaning it is a weed of known economic importance which occurs in the state in small enough infestations to make eradication or containment possible.
Where?
Purple starthistles is native to the Mediterranean region, southern Europe and nothern Africa. Iberian starthistle is native to Asia Minor in the region between the Caspian and Black seas. The habitat for these species is grassland; purple starthistle is more abundant on fertile sites, while Iberian favors streambanks and wet areas. Purple Starthistle has been found in Clackamas County Oregon. Iberian thistle was found in Wheeler County, Oregon in 2009.
Lookalikes
Not really, other thistles such as yellow starthistle, have similar growth characteristics (thistle-like), but are different in color.
What can you do?
Be on the lookout for these species, and please call report it online at http://oregoninvasiveshotline.org/ or call the Invasive Species Hotline at 1-866-INVADER (1-866-468-2337), this number is toll free.
