Before 1850, Americans grew Dyer’s woad for blue dye; in the Great Basin, one infestation later grew from 12,000 to 150,000 acres in eight years

Oct 20, 2026

Dyer's woad, once used for blue dye, has become an invasive species in the American West. This plant produces a high number of seeds and thrives in disturbed soils, making it hard to control. Control efforts require extensive knowledge of its lifecycle and persistent manual and chemical treatment. A recent study highlighted its ecological threat to native plants and livestock forage in Northern Utah.

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