Stinking Fleabane Dittrichia graveolens

Stinkwort is an annual weed native to portions of Europe to the Western Himalayan. It has spread rampantly outside of its native range, specifically in California and Australia. It has been spotted in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and South Carolina.

The weed has strong-smelling oil, which it excretes from the glands in its foliage and stems. The sticky leaves and stems may cause contact dermatitis. Protective gloves and clothing should be worn when handling this weed. Stinkwort may also cause illness and death to livestock and horses. The flowers have hairy fruits with tufts of fine bristles that are barbed.  When ingested by livestock, they may puncture the stomach, intestines, and bowels. The oil also taints the taste of the meat and milk products. 

Stinkwort is also known as Camphor Inula, Cape Khakiweed, and Stinking Fleabane. It is a member of the Asteraceae family. The genus name, Dittrichia, is named in honor of a German botanist, Manfred Dittrich. The species name, graveolens, is Latin and means "heavy smelling."

The plant is erect, multi-branched, conical shaped, and may grow over 3 feet tall. The basal leaves are in the form of a rosette, and the leaves on the stem are smaller and alternate. The small daisy-like flowers emerge in the fall. The seeds are oval with fine hairs and topped with a layer of bristles. The seeds germinate in the winter and spring and are dispersed by the wind, water, or attaching to animals, clothing, or equipment.

Stinkwort has an unusual life cycle for an annual. The plant appears in May and develops branches and leaves from June to September. The flower and seeds are produced from September to December. 

Agricultural areas are threatened by this weed. It may be found along roadsides, grazing lands, wastelands, or disturbed sites. The challenge of controlling Stinkwort is using the proper management tools at the right time.