Plant Profile: Gnaphalium

Cudweeds belong to the Asteraceae family, commonly known as the daisy family, and consist of various closely related species that can be classified as either winter annuals or short-lived perennials. These plants produce a large quantity of seeds that are dispersed by the wind. Their stems and the undersides of their leaves are covered in white hairs. The flowers typically appear tannish-white and are accompanied by brown or purple bracts. Cudweeds are often considered weeds that thrive in soils with low fertility. They can be effectively controlled using several preemergence herbicides. Additionally, cudweeds are referred to by their Latin names, Pseudognaphalium spp. and Gamochaeta spp.