Hogwort - Croton capitatus (Taxonomy, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images, Toxic)

Hogwort

Also known as: Woolly croton

Hogwort (Croton capitatus) is an annual invasive weed that grows up to 30 to 91 cm tall. Dense hairs on its stems and leaves give it a grayish appearance. It also goes by the common names “Goatweed” or “Hogwort.”

Scientific classification

Species

Hogwort (Croton capitatus)

Nances, spurges, willows and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Weeds

Weed or not

30 cm to 61 cm

Plant Height

30 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Yellow, Green

Flower Color

Green, Brown

Stem Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Summer, Fall

Growth Season

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Hogwort

Distribution of Hogwort

Distribution Map

Hogwort is primarily native to the central parts of North America. Over time, it has experienced a range expansion, thriving in various other regions within the same continent. The distribution, while concentrated, does not cover the entire landmass. Hogwort has not been substantially reported as an introduced species in continents beyond its native range.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Pastures, old fields, cultivated land, prairies, floodplains, longleaf pinelands

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Symbolism

Change

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Toxicity

All parts of hogwort are mildly toxic to humans, cats, and dogs. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, nervousness, and skin irritation in humans; discomfort in cats; and gastrointestinal upset in dogs. Handling hogwort with gloves is recommended. Immediate veterinary attention is crucial if pets ingest the plant to manage symptoms effectively. Caution is advised when in areas where hogwort grows.

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Weed Control

Hogwort is native to the central and eastern parts of the United States, where it attracts pollinators and birds. However, it is considered a noxious weed in agricultural contexts in multiple states but is not listed as invasive at the federal or state level in the United States. It spreads rapidly due to its ability to germinate multiple times a season. All parts of the plant are considered toxic to both humans and livestock. Livestock typically avoid hogwort unless the pasture is overgrazed, so proper rotation can prevent poisoning. Hogwort is effectively controlled with herbicides.

How to Control It

The best season for the removal of hogwort is late summer or early fall. It is important to remove the plant before it reaches its seeding stage to prevent further spread. Here are some methods to control or remove this plant:

Hand Pulling: This traditional method involves manually uprooting the plant, ensuring that you also remove the root system to prevent regrowth.
Solarization: This method uses the sun's energy to kill the plant. Simply cover the hogwort plants with a clear plastic sheet, securing it at the edges. This will elevate soil temperatures to levels lethal to the plant.
Smothering: This method involves laying down a thick organic material, like newspaper, over the top of the hogwort, then covering it with a layer of mulch. This blocks sunlight and suffocates the plant.
Use of Organic Herbicide: An organic herbicide application can be an effective way to manage hogwort. Spray the plant with an organic vinegar-based herbicide, ensuring all leaves are coated.
Biological Control: Introduce natural predators, such as goats or insects, which are known to feed on hogwort. This requires careful management to ensure the introduced species does not become invasive itself.

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Quickly Identify Hogwort

Upright stems with dense white to rusty brown woolly hairs, reaching 2-3 feet (60-90 cm) tall.

Small, densely clustered flowers at stem tips; male flowers have 5 white petals, female lack petals.

Distinct, hairy spherical capsules around 0.25 inches (0.64 cm) in diameter, splitting to reveal seeds.

Gray-green, fuzzy-textured leaves with oval to lance shape, 1-4 inches (2.5-10 cm) long.

Erect stems with light brown, woolly hairs, branching at nodes, supporting moderate thickness and upright growth.

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Care Guide for Hogwort

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Hogwort thrives in arid conditions, requiring watering weekly for optimal health. Preferring well-draining soil, hogwort mimics its native habitat and displays drought tolerance. Its growth cycle aligns with seasonal rainfall, making it a resilient choice for variable climates.

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Images of Hogwort

Distribution of Hogwort

Culture

Toxicity

Weed Control

Quickly Identify Hogwort

Care Guide for Hogwort

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