This Class B non-designate noxious weed is widespread in western Washignton. Control is recommended, but not required in King County.

Herb Robert escaped from ornamental plantings and thrives in forested communities as the dominant ground cover, displacing native and beneficial plants.

Herb Robert's 5-petaled flowers are in all shades of pink and sometimes white. Overall the plant is covered with short glandular hairs, giving the plant a sticky feel and a distinct odor (sometimes this plant is known as "stinky Bob"). Shallow, weak roots make this plant easy to pull although large infestations can be highly labor-intensive to remove.

For information about herb Robert identification and control, please see the Herb Robert Weed Alert or for comprehensive biology and control information, download the Herb Robert Best Management Practices (320 KB Acrobat file), or follow this link to the WA State Noxious Weed Control Board.

Herb Robert photos - click for larger image