Weed Wednesday – White Cockle

Weed Wednesday – White Cockle

Let’s feature White Cockle for this weeks Weed Wednesday!

White Cockle is a noxious weed spreading across Alberta, commonly found in cultivated fields, pastures, and disturbed areas. Early identification is key to managing its spread.

How to identify it:

  • Upright plant growing 30–90 cm tall
  • Narrow, lance-shaped leaves
  • White to pinkish flowers with five petals, often marked with pink veins
  • Produces abundant seeds in small capsules that persist in soil

Why it’s considered noxious:

  • Competes with crops and desirable forage, reducing yield and quality
  • Produces large numbers of seeds, making infestations difficult to control
  • Can reduce pasture productivity and negatively impact livestock feed
  • It has the ability to propagate from any node

What should you do:

  • If you think you’ve found White Cockle or need help identifying it, contact your local Agricultural Fieldman for verification and management advice.
  • Early detection and action are essential to prevent the spread and protect your land.

To learn more about white cockle, visit: https://abinvasives.ca/fact-sheet/white-cockle/