It's impossible to imagine the Arizona Sonora desert without its iconic Saguaro Cactus. That frightening scenario just might become a reality if this invasive species is allowed to take over the desert landscape.

Invasive Species: Threatening the Saguaro, Setting the Stage for Wildfires

A new threat has emerged in the form of an invasive species: Stinknet. Known scientifically as Oncosiphon piluliferum and commonly called Globe Chamomile, this unwelcome plant is infiltrating the Sonoran Desert and challenging native plants and animals.

Stinknet is an invasive species in Arizona
Stinknet. // By SAplants - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikipedia Commons.
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Stinknet first came to Arizona via Southern California. Originally from South Africa, the species now has a foothold in Arizona’s ecosystem, and it's spreading rapidly and outcompeting indigenous species.

READ: If You Spot This Insect in Arizona, Destroy it Immediately!

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Stinknet is an invasive species in Arizona
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The Arizona Native Plant Society (AZNPS) calls this "a pretty flower, but an invasive weed in our midst."

According to the University of Arizona,

"Its proliferation is particularly concerning because it transforms fire-resistant desert landscapes into fire-prone grasslands, posing a severe risk to iconic cacti like the Saguaro."

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How to Get Rid of Stinkweed in Arizona

Conservation groups in Arizona are working together to combat the spread of Stinknet.

Stinknet is an invasive species in Arizona
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Stinknet is considered a noxious weed. Actively trying to remove it can trigger allergic reactions and can also cause headaches and severe skin and respiratory reactions. Report sightings to stinknet.org.

Stinknet is an invasive species in Arizona
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Finding and controlling this weed quickly can make a significant difference in ultimately controlling this invasive species.

[Sources: Wikipedia.org | University of Arizona | UA Cooperative Extension | USDA | AZNPS | Stinknet.org ]

Photos: Globe Chamomile: Via Wikipedia.org, Photo by SAplants - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=103384848


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