Ragwort

An uncommon perennial weed of longer turf surfaces or neglected lawns. In mown turf it should not be able to flower, but basal lobed edged leaves will be present. It is commonly associated with pastures and grazing for horses and is classed as an ‘injurious weed' (being harmful to grazing animals which eat it) in the Weeds Act 1959. It grows on a range of dry to moist soil types, being more prevalent in drier conditions. It will grow in a range of soil pH conditions, as well as light shade to open situations. Where it does flower these will be yellow petals, attached to a central yellowish disc, totalling about 25mm in diameter, but variable in size, flowering from June and October. It is more properly called Common Ragwort because there are several species of Ragwort. Its scientific name is Jacobaea vulgaris (previously being classed as Senecio jacobaea).