ODA Noxious Weed Program

Those bright yellow flowers carpeting a shady forest floor might look beautiful, but they could belong to yellow archangel (Lamiastrum galeobdolon), an invasive plant spreading beyond gardens into natural areas. 🌼

Originally planted as an ornamental groundcover, yellow archangel thrives in shaded forests, trail edges, gardens, and disturbed areas. It spreads aggressively through creeping stems that root along the ground, forming dense mats that crowd out native wildflowers and seedlings. Its silvery-patterned leaves and bright yellow spring flowers make it attractive in landscapes — but difficult to control once established in natural habitats.

While gardening and dumping yard waste are major pathways for spread, seeds and plant fragments can also hitchhike on boots, tools, bikes, and outdoor equipment, especially after moving through muddy or invaded areas. Even small fragments left behind can start new patches.

If you’re hiking, gardening, or working outdoors this spring, take a moment to PlayCleanGo. Brush off mud and plant material before heading to your next destination. Small actions can help protect forests and native plant communities from invasive spread.

ODA Noxious W**d Team is now in planning stage for the Oregon Interagency Noxious W**d Symposium 2026. Have an idea for presentation or presenter? Watch your email for announcement for submision guidelines.

Congratulations Union County W**d Program, local W**d Levy passes for 5 mores years of funding.

Below top photo: 2026 After treatments of white top along the bank of the Grande Ronde River.
Bottom photo: 2022 Before treatments of white top along the bank of the Grande Ronde River.