Description:
Blue weed, also called Viper's bugloss, was introduced to North America from Europe.In this part of the world it grows to about 60 cm tall, generally in direct sunlight, and blossoms in mid June with many beautful blue and purple flowers.The stems of these plants are covered with stiff hairs.This plant can be a bit of a problem when it gets into hay fields because it is difficult to eradicate, and the livestock reportedly will not eat it.

• Mechanical: Mowing can stop seed production in short term, but plants can re-grow and bloom shorter than the cutting blade; digging or pulling when soil conditions are moist is effective-control prior to bloom or, if after, bag or burn plants in a pile as appropriate; seed bank will be present for years
• Biological: No known biological controls approved for Blueweed at this time
• Herbicide: Several herbicides are effective at label rates; best timing is in early spring when plants are in the rosette stage. Refer to the State Noxious Weed Control Board site

For More Information:
Detailed information about Blueweed is available at the King County, WA Web Site.