Bishops' Weed Aegopodium podagraria

Goutweed is an aggressive plant in the Apiaceae family that forms dense patches by means of its spreading long, white, and branching rhizomes.  Goutweed can be found growing naturally in much of the U.S.  It has been reported as invasive in natural areas of Connecticut, Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Vermont, and Wisconsin. Its natural habitat is disturbed lands such as felled forests, abandoned fields, and pastures. 

Typical patches form a dense canopy, creating a ground cover that is very low maintenance. However, if you do not desire this plant, it is a high maintenance weed.  Often, the vigorous spread will not produce flower-bearing foliage if the site is under dense shade.  Full sun may cause the leaf edges to brown.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  These patches tend to displace native species. It can also inhibit the establishment of conifers and other native trees. Some management options include spraying with herbicides, manually digging or hand-pulling of the plants, and continuously mowing the growth.  When using herbicides, care must be taken to not overspray and damaging or killing other plants, including native plants.  Digging and hand-pulling may be a long term project with such vigorous growth.  The most effective means of eliminating goutweed would be to cut to the ground after it has just fully leafed out, then cover with black plastic. This will prevent photosynthesizing, as it will deplete its carbohydrate reserves.  Consider native alternatives listed in the lefthand column.