Doveweed

Doveweed (Croton setigerus), formerly known as Eremocarpus setigerus, is a member of the Euphorbiaceae family. This annual herb is easily recognized by its low-growing, mat-forming habit and dense covering of star-shaped hairs, which give the plant a distinct grayish-green appearance throughout its life cycle.

The plant is native to arid regions of Western North America, particularly prevalent in California and surrounding areas. It typically colonizes disturbed sites, such as pastures, roadsides, and agricultural fields. Within farming systems, it acts as an invasive competitor, frequently encroaching upon cereals, orchards, and vineyards where it thrives in compacted or sandy soils.

Biological resilience is a key feature of this weed. Its drought-tolerant nature, facilitated by pubescence, allows it to survive in harsh, high-temperature environments where crops often struggle. It produces numerous seeds throughout the summer, which are spread by machinery, wildlife, and water runoff, ensuring persistent germination in subsequent seasons.

The economic impact of Croton setigerus is largely driven by its intense competition for limited water and nutrient resources, leading to significant yield losses in infested areas. Furthermore, its presence in forage crops can be problematic for livestock, as certain chemical components within the plant may cause physiological distress if ingested by grazing animals.

Effective management requires an integrated strategy to reduce seed bank accumulation.

• Cultural practices involve deep cultivation and tillage to destroy seedlings before they reach reproductive stages.
• Chemical control utilizes selective post-emergence herbicides, which are most effective when applied to young, actively growing plants.