Top 20 Most Common Weeds in Norway

Norway, with its varied climate zones from temperate coastal areas to colder inland regions, provides a diverse environment conducive to a range of garden weeds. Among the most common, Canada goldenrod, Common mugwort, and Common bird's-foot trefoil pose significant challenges for gardeners and landscapers. As these weeds adeptly take advantage of Norway's long summer days and moist conditions, they demand diligent management to prevent them from overwhelming other flora.

Most Common Weeds

1. Canada goldenrod

The Solidago canadensis, colloquially known as canada goldenrod, is a perennial herb native to North America. This plant can be found growing in a variety of different habitats, and it often forms colonies. In many parts of Europe and East Asia, canada goldenrod is considered an invasive species.

2. Common mugwort

Common mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) is an herbaceous plant often found in nitrogen-rich soils. The plant's scent is reportedly a mild insect repellant. Common mugwort is used as an offering in Nepalese temples. Tradition holds that it has cleansing properties, so believers also use it to sweep their floors to give them both a spiritual and physical cleaning.

Growth Rate:

Rapid

3. Yellow rocket

Yellow rocket is a biannual herb endemic to Europe. Saint Barbara, the patron saint of artillerymen and mining workers, inspired the name Barbarea. This plant's leaves are edible, whether raw or cooked. It also has a natural resistance to several bug species.

Growth Rate:

Moderate

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4. Common bird's-foot trefoil

Common bird's-foot trefoil (Lotus corniculatus) is a common flowering perennial plant that grows widely throughout Europe and North America. Commercially, it is often added to livestock feed to prevent bloating. In Britain, common bird's-foot trefoil is often referred to as "butter and eggs" due to its flowering appearance and golden color. It attracts bumblebees and is considered an invasive species in North America and Australia.

5. Stinging nettle

Although the stinging nettle has a variety of uses it is best known for its eponymous sting. It has sharp defensive hairs on its leaves and stems which will release pain-inducing chemicals when touched. Nevertheless, Dorset, England hosts an annual World Nettle Eating Championship, which started with a debate between two farmers over the severity of their nettle infestations. To consume them more safely, stinging nettles must be thoroughly boiled.

Growth Rate:

Rapid

6. Creeping buttercup

While originally used as an ornamental plant around the world, the creeping buttercup is now considered invasive in many places. Distribution usually occurs through the transportation of hay, making control difficult. The creeping buttercup is considered poisonous and can cause skin blistering.

7. Meadow buttercup

Meadow buttercup (Ranunculus acris) is a flowering plant native to Europe. It has gained many nicknames related to its yellow flowers and ubiquity in meadow-like environments. Meadow buttercup is moderately toxic to both humans and livestock.

8. Bird vetch

Bird vetch (Vicia cracca) is a flowering species of vetch native to Europe and Asia. In North America, bird vetch is considered an invasive species and a weed. In these environments, the flowering plant often grows in industrial disturbed environments like oil fields.

9. Common dandelion

*Taraxacum officinale*, widely known as common dandelion, is a herbaceous perennial that can be found in temperate regions all over the world, in habitats with moist soils. The most popular feature of this plant is its fruits, furry spheres that are easily carried by the wind. Although it is generally considered a weed, common dandelion is actually edible and very nutritious.

Growth Rate:

Rapid

10. Common plantain

While native to Europe, the common plantain was one of the first plants to reach North America through early European explorers. Native Americans have referred to Plantago major as 'white man's footprint', as it disrupted many local ecosystems by its introduction.

Growth Rate:

Moderate

11. Orchard grass

Orchard grass (Dactylis glomerata) is native to Eurasia and was introduced to North America around the 18th century as a forage grass. Now it is widely naturalized in the U.S., Australia, and New Zealand. It is also called "cat grass" because our feline friends love to chew on it.

Growth Rate:

Rapid

12. Autumn hawkbit

Autumn hawkbit (Scorzoneroides autumnalis) is also called “Autumn Hawkbit.” It’s native to Eurasia, but was brought to North America. Its common name references its resemblance to the common dandelion.

13. Creeping thistle

This aggressive weed spreads across grasslands and fields via underground roots that creep horizontally, some for more than 5 m. It can cause major problems to agriculture if its growth is left unchecked. Its seeds feed many birds as well as pest insects. Creeping thistle is generally considered a noxious weed even in its native territory.

Growth Rate:

Rapid

14. Giant hogweed

Giant hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum) is a very large, 2 to 5 m tall, herbaceous, flowering perennial with many amusing names - Giant Cow Parsley, Hogsbane, and even Giant Alien. However, names are the only thing funny about this plant - it is a phototoxic invasive species. In combination with light, its sap causes phytophotodermatitis, a serious skin inflammation with blistering and scarring which can last for up to several days.

Growth Rate:

Rapid

15. Japanese knotweed

Hearing the name of japanese knotweed can strike fear in the heart of homeowners. When this aggressive and invasive weed is identified on a property, mortgage lenders sometimes deny loans or demand extensive chemical treatment. This is due to the fact that the root system of japanese knotweed is so extensive that once established, it can be nearly impossible to eradicate.

Growth Rate:

Rapid

16. Garden sorrel

Garden sorrel (Rumex acetosella) is a flowering plant related to buckwheat. It can be found in acidic soil and tends to grow outside abandoned mines where other plants can't take hold. Farmers will often consider garden sorrel a weed; it is a particular problem for blueberry crops.

Growth Rate:

Rapid

17. Common chickweed

The common chickweed gets its name due to the fact that chickens love to eat it, though they're not alone in that respect. Though it's often considered a nuisance weed, most parts of this plant can be consumed raw or cooked and used similar to spinach. The saponins in common chickweed are slightly toxic but will only have an effect if ingested in huge quantities.

Growth Rate:

Rapid

18. Lambsquarters

Lambsquarters has many other names, including pigweed, goosefoot, and bacon weed. This plant seems to appear out of nowhere and is considered by many to be a pesky weed. However, the greens of this plant are edible, can be prepared similar to spinach, and are packed with nutrients.

Growth Rate:

Rapid

19. Common St. John's wort

Common St. John's wort (*Hypericum perforatum*) is a plant species that is native to Europe and Central Asia. Common St. John's wort is considered poisonous to livestock and can cause problems for humans if consumed. This dense, fast-growing plant has been introduced to North America and Australia, where it is often viewed as an invasive species.

Growth Rate:

Moderate

20. Timothy

Timothy (*Phleum pratense*) is a perennial grass that grows from 61 to 122 cm tall. Timothy is grown for its hay, and it is a favorite of insects and farmers. This species is an irritant to many allergy sufferers. The seed heads are about 40 cm long with spiked flowers that bloom in summer. Caterpillars feed on this grass, and it also provides a habitat for other insects.

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More Plants in Norway

Most Common Toxic Plants

Norway's varied climate, from coastal areas with mild winters to inland regions with colder temperatures, provides diverse habitats that can support different toxic plants. With a landscape rich in forests, mountains, and wetlands, conditions are suitable for poisonous flora. This includes species like , , and , all of which are a concern for public safety and indigenous wildlife in the area.

Most Common Flowers

Norway's climate and soil provide an ideal environment for a variety of native flowers to bloom resplendently. Among these, three characteristic blossoms stand out: , , and . These flowers not only add visual beauty to the region but also hold great symbolism and ecological importance. Validating the trustworthiness of sources, it is evident that these flowers thrive in Norway's unique natural habitat, enhancing the country's enchanting landscapes.

Most Common Flowers of Spring

As the snow thaws and daylight lengthens in Norway, Spring awakens nature with subtle warmth, nurturing a patchwork of floral life. Amongst the first to announce Spring's arrival are the luminous , the hardy , and the emblematic . Their blossoming not only blankets Norway's landscapes in color but also symbolizes the rejuvenation and enduring resilience of nature after the dark, cold winter.

Most Common Spring Fruits

Spring in Norway, with its brightening skies and increasingly mild air, creates an idyllic setting for awakening fruits. It's a time when nature revives, and local fruit plants like , , and reach their harvest. These fruits, bathed in extended daylight, embody freshness, offering a taste of the season's essence and marking the return of local produce to Norwegian tables.

Most Common Fruits

Norway's unique climatic conditions, including long daylight hours during summer, cool temperatures, and well-draining soil, create a niche for fruit cultivation. Noteworthy among local produce are , , and , which have adapted to thrive in this environment. These plants not only provide fresh fruits but hold cultural significance, being an integral part of traditional Norwegian cuisine and festivities. Their successful growth symbolizes the harmony between Norway's agriculture and its challenging climate.

Most Common Trees

Norway's climatic and soil conditions create a favorable environment for a variety of indigenous trees to thrive. Among the most emblematic local trees are the , , and . These trees hold significant cultural and ecological value in the region. They are cherished for their beauty, resilience, and contribution to the local ecosystem. Their presence serves as a symbol of Norway's rich natural heritage and the importance of preserving its native flora.

Most Common Tall Trees

Norway's diverse climate, ranging from coastal to inland areas, and its varied topography, characterized by expansive boreal forests and mountainous landscapes, provide a nurturing ground for majestic trees. Among the species that stand as natural skyscrapers are , , and . These arboreal giants underscore the country's rich ecological tapestry and resonate with historical significance, serving as silent sentinels that have witnessed the passage of countless seasons.

Most Common Flowers of Winter

Winter in Norway is a frosty wonderland that surprisingly provides a haven for certain flowers. Despite the cold, , , and manage to bloom and bring beauty to the serene landscape. These resilient winter flowers showcase the ability of nature to thrive even in the harshest conditions.

Most Common Plants

In Norway, you can find Common coleus, Swiss cheese plant, Canada goldenrod, Garden lupine, Common mugwort, and more! There are 50 types of plants in total. Be sure to look out for these common plants when you’re walking on the streets, in parks, or public gardens.