Asiatic Hawksbeard

Youngia japonica

Asiatic Hawksbeard is a warm-season annual broadleaf weed that is also known as Oriental False Hawksbeard or by its scientific name, Youngia japonica.

Identify

Lobed

Spatulate

Asiatic Hawksbeard can be identified by its spatulate leaves that are lobed along the edges. This broadleaf weed also has flowering stalks, is usually branched in the uppermost part of the plant and has a short taproot. When in bloom, Asiatic Hawksbeard blossoms flowers that are yellow to orange-yellow in color and have five tiny teeth at the end of outermost petal. Reproduction of this broadleaf weed occurs by seeds.

Life Cycle

This broadleaf weed can be found in a number of different soil conditions and environments, often growing in lawns and other fields of grass. Asiatic Hawksbeard thrives throughout much of the southeastern United States.

Control

Cultural weed control methods—including good lawn-mowing and watering practices—can help prevent Youngia japonica from spreading in your yard but are not enough to eliminate the weed. Professionally applied broadleaf weed killers are the best bet for complete removal.