Dalmatian toadflax is a member of the Figwort family. It was introduced as an ornamental from Europe, and can be found along Snowmass Creek Road. It is a creeping perennial with stems from 2 to 4 feet tall. The flowers are snapdragon-shaped, bright yellow, with orange centers; the leaves are waxy and heart-shaped. Dalmatian toadflax is especially well adapted to arid sites and can spread rapidly once established. Because of its deep, extensive root system and heavy seed production, this plant is difficult to manage.

Comments: Very rare to date in Pitkin County, fairly common in Glenwood Springs.

Biological controls: The defoliating moth, Calophasia lunula, has been released on Dalmatian and yellow toadflax. It may defoliate up to 20% of the leaves of the plant.

Chemical controls: For additional information contact your local city, county or town natural resource office. (See section VII for phone numbers.)

Cultural controls: Early identification is key; since it is rare in Pitkin County, pulling or digging of individual plants would be effective.

Mechanical controls: Repeated mowing 2-3 times per year will slow spread and reduce seed production.

Education: The key to Dalmatian toadflax management is to create an awareness among homeowners, nurseries, landscapers, and landscape architects that Dalmatian toadflax is a noxious weed and therefore should not be specified in plantings, sold in nurseries or planted in home gardens or large-scale landscape projects.