Siberian peashrub

Siberian peashrub

Common name: Siberian peashrub
Scientific name: Caragana arborescens
Synonyms: Caragana

Legal status: Restricted. Minnesota Noxious Weed Law - Propagation and sale of this plant are prohibited in Minnesota. Transportation is only allowed when in compliance with Minnesota Statute 18.82. Although Restricted Noxious Weeds are not required to be controlled or eradicated by law, landowners are strongly encouraged to manage these invasive plants on their properties in order to reduce spread into new areas. Exemption for Green Spires ® Caragana - Caragana 'Jefarb'.

Life cycle: Perennial
Related species: None
Habitat: Adaptable to many growing conditions. Prefers sun but will grow in shade. Found naturalizing in woodland edges, savannas, and distributed grasslands.
Impact: Environmental, outcompetes native vegetation, fixes nitrogen altering soil chemistry.
Native range: Siberia, China, Kazakhstan, Mongolia

Background

Siberian peashrub can be found in shelterbelts, wildlife plantings, and commonly as a hedgerow. It is very adaptable to many environmental conditions and has been used for erosion control as the plants have an extensive root system. Each plant is self-compatible meaning that it can reproduce by itself and begin a new infestation.

Identification

Siberian peashrub grows as a large shrub or small tree up to 18 feet tall and has alternate, compound leaves 3-5 inches long which lack a terminal leaflet. Stipules at the base of the leaf can be stiff and sharp. Yellow flowers bloom in May and June then produce 1-2 inch long seed pods that are green in summer then brown, curl, open, and release seed in fall. There are approximately six seeds per pod.

Management

• Mechanical: Pulling or digging up roots
• Chemical: Foliar, cut stump, hack and squirt, basal bark herbicide treatment

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