Description:
Buffalobur is a low growing, yellow-flowered, spined, hairy annual. The stems (mostly branching in the upper part), are erect and bushy, 1/2 to two feet long. The entire plant, except the for the flower petals, is covered by straight yellow spines, 1/8 to 1/2 inch long. The leaves are alternate and two to six inches long including the stalks. Each leaf is irregularly cut into five to seven lobes, and often these are two to five lobed. The leaves are covered by short yellow star-like hairs, and the midribs, veins, and leaf stalks are spiny. The yellow flowers are five-lobed, wheel-shaped, 1 to 1.5 inches across, in few flowered clusters on spiny flower stalks. The calyx is covered by spines; it enlarges and forms a spiny bur, enclosing and completely covering the seedpod. The seeds are almost circular, 1/2 inch or slightly more in diameter, brown to reddish brown, flattened, irregularly angled, with a finely pitted surface. To identify buffalobur, look for the tomato-like yellow flowers and the unique, extremely prickly leaves, stems and fruits.

• Mechanical: Prevent seed production of buffalobur by repeated, close mowing or by hoeing scattered plants before blossoms appear.
• Biological: None known.
• Herbicide: 2,4-D plus Banvel can control buffalobur: Buffalobur is moderately susceptible to 2,4-D when seedlings are immature. It becomes very resistant to 2,4-D after flowering. A combination of 2,4-D plus Banvel usually provides more complete control than either herbicide alone. Apply 2 quarts 2,4-D (3.8 pound acid equivalent per gallon) plus 1 pint Banvel per acre before plants bloom. Always follow label instructions.Refer to the State Noxious Weed Control Board site

For More Information:
Detailed information about Buffalobur is available at the Washington State Noxious Weed Control Board Web Site.