Goutweed

About Goutweed

Goutweed (Aegopodium podagraria) is a perennial herb from Asia that was likely introduced as a groundcover for landscaping. It’s usually under 1 foot tall, but its flower heads of their small white blooms may reach 3 feet tall.

The Problem

It often invades woodlands next to areas where it has been planted, and can spread from discarded yard waste. Its dense growth crowds out native plants.

The Solution

Control small patches by repeated hand pulling or digging over several years. Another option is mowing, which you can do either repeatedly throughout the growing season, or in spring followed by a covering of black plastic for the remainder of the season. Systemic herbicides applied as a foliar spray are also effective. Always read and follow the directions on the label when using herbicide.