Soliva nasturtiifolia

Soliva nasturtiifolia, commonly known as common soliva or lawn burweed, is an annual herb belonging to the Asteraceae family. It is recognized by its fern-like leaves and a prostrate growth habit, which allows it to thrive in diverse environments ranging from lawns to open agricultural fields.

This weed is commonly found in pastures, turfgrass areas, and cultivated fields where the soil remains moist. It is known for its high adaptability to different soil types, often becoming a dominant weed in disturbed areas where it quickly outcompetes native or desired vegetation.

The biology of Soliva nasturtiifolia is centered on its reproductive strategy. The plant produces small, sharp, spine-tipped burs that contain seeds. These seeds are produced at the base of the plant, making them difficult to remove through conventional mowing, as they persist near the soil surface.

In agricultural settings, its harm is primarily attributed to nutrient depletion and its interference with crop establishment. For livestock producers, the plant is a major nuisance because the sharp, spiny burs cause physical irritation and injury to the feet and mouths of grazing animals, leading to economic losses.

Effective management requires an integrated strategy, including both preventative and curative measures. Mechanical control such as tillage can be effective if done before seed production. Chemically, the application of post-emergence herbicides, particularly those targeting broadleaf weeds during the early vegetative stage, provides the most reliable control.