Kochia

Bassis scoparia

Cehonpodiaceae (Goosefoot family)

Class B Noxious Weed

Control or Containment Required

Kochia is a Class B Noxious Weed and a major agricultural pest in Franklin County. Originating from Russia, this summer annual was intentionally introduced in North America but because of its drought hardiness, ability to grow in poor soils and tumbling dispersal of seeds it spread quickly throughout the U.S.

Kochia's deep taproot and adaptability to dry or moist sites give it a competitive advantage. Rosettes emerge in spring before many perennial species have begun to grow. Kohia plants grow rapidly and can exceed 6 feet in height. Flowering and seed production occur July through October with each plant capable of producing more than 14,000 seeds.

Kochia is a serious economic problem in cultivated fields and because it contains high levels of oxalates, alkaloids and nitrates it is toxic to a variety of grazing animals if consumed in large quantities.