Weed of the Month

Have you ever wondered what that plant is growing out of the sidewalk? Or what that pesky weed is that has ravaged your backyard? If so, then we have a tool for you! Introducing.... Tidal Influence's "Weed of the Month" list! This list has been in the making for quite some time, so we have a quite lengthy list for all of those who are curious about flora that is nonnative to California, but which can still be found around these parts. All of the weeds listed have at one point or another populated the Los Cerritos Wetlands and/or the Colorado Lagoon in Long Beach, CA. Some have been eradicated, but some still remain. 

Check back for updates each month as we add to this growing list.

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Silene gallica

Commonly called Windmill Pink or Common Catchfly, this annual herb is part of the Caryophyllaceae family. It is native to central and southern Europe, as well as the United Kingdom, and is found in distrubred habitats. Its blooming period is from January to June and its flowers range in color from white to bright pink.

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Euphorbia terracina

Commonly known as Carnation spurge, this perennial herb is native to the coasts of the Mediterranean Sea. It is of the family Euphorbiacae and is one of the many types of spurge found within the Los Cerritos Wetlands. It can be found in many coastal habitats, including salt marshes, coastal bluffs, and riparian areas and blooms from May to July. If you have skin sensitivities, you may want to wear gloves when weeding this plant, as it can cause minor dermatitis in some individuals. 

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Medicago Polymorpha

Bur clover is an annual herb native to the Mediterranean Europe. It is part of the Fabaceae family and blooms from February through June. It is not typically found in wetlands, but can be, and we can attest that there have been large patches of it found at Los Cerritos. These clovers are easily identifiable by the pesky green burs that like to stick to one's socks and shoes.

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