Cynoglossum officinale, June 16, 2023
Common & scientific name
Houndstongue, Cynoglossum officinale
Family
Borage, Boraginaceae
Location
Roadside, 8,200’
Fun, weird, helpful, or little known fact
The Colorado Noxious Weed Act lists houndstongue as a List B species, meaning land owners or managers are required to eliminate or control it. It’s a short-lived perennial or biennial that produces rosettes in the first year and bolts a stout, 1-4 feet tall stem the second year. Its thick, woody taproot can reach 3-4 feet deep. It can produce up to 2,000 seeds with velcro-like attachments that remain viable for up to 3 years. It is poisonous.
This photo is the last you’ll see of it!