Read on to learn more about ragweed and how to identify the two types by their leaves and flowers.
Common ragweed grows to 6 feet tall with a fernlike appearance.
Giant ragweed grows to a staggering 15 feet tall with leaves shaped like the palms of hands.
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Both types of ragweed have other identifying characteristics.
Common Ragweed Leaves
The leaf of the common ragweed plant has a fern-like appearance.
Young leaves typically have some purple speckling on them.
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However,other weeds, such as lamb’s quarters, can also have purple markings.
The flowers are followed by unremarkable brownish fruits.
Giant Ragweed Leaves
Giant ragweed bears leaves that resemble the shape of a palm of a hand.
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The leaves usually have serrated edges, and their green stems are covered in tiny white hairs.
Plus, the smaller leaves around the base of the plant often have hairs on their undersides.
Overall, the leaves can be up to a foot long and 8 inches across.
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Giant Ragweed Blooms
Giant ragweed flowers are similar to common ragweed flowers.
The plant also will often have slightly smaller flower spikes closer to its base.
Like common ragweed, the blooms appear like small bumps.
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The flowers start green but turn yellow-green and then yellow-brown color as they mature.
Control ragweed already in your yard by pulling it out by hand.
You may be coughing and have shortness of breath, as well.You’re not alone.
Approximately 5 million people in the United States suffer from ragweed pollen allergies yearly.
Another name for ragweed is ambrosia.
There is no cure for ragweed allergies.
American College of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology.
Ragweed Pollen Allergy.Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America.
Ragweed Allergies.Allergy & Asthma data pipe.
Ragweed Identification.Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection.
