Dame's Rocket Public Notice
What is Dame’s Rocket?
Dame’s Rocket (Hesperis matronalis) is a non-native plant to Saskatchewan that is classified as a noxious weed under Saskatchewan’s Weed Control Act, 2010, and it poses a threat to native plant species.
Due to its status as a noxious weed, owners or occupants are required to contain and control any established infestations of Dame’s Rocket located on the land, or, under the supervision of the weed inspector, eradicate any isolated infestations of Dame’s Rocket located on the land.
Identifying Dame’s Rocket
Dame’s Rocket can be identified by the following characteristics:
- Purple, pink, or white flowers, with four petals in a cross shape
- Alternating, lance-shaped leaves with toothed/serrated edges
- Reach a height of 60 cm – 120 cm
- Blooming in late May to July
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Dame's Rocket Photo by Mikhail Peace on Pexels |
Native Phlox Photo by Carrie |
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** Note: Dame’s Rocket has four petals and has a look-alike called Native Phlox. Native Phlox is a beneficial native species. Some differences to look for that may indicate a plant is Native Phlox include five petals and leaves with opposite, smooth edges.**
Why Dame’s Rocket Is an Issue
The presence of Dame’s Rocket is an issue for several reasons:
- Can produce thousands of seeds to compete with those native plant species that actively support Saskatchewan’s ecosystem.
- Is not controlled by insects as it would be in its native Eurasian habitat.
***Note: avoid buying those wildflower seed packets that may contain Dame’s Rocket seeds and could lead to this noxious weed’s further spread. Only purchase those wildflower seed packets that clearly label the contents.***
What to Do if You Find Dame’s Rocket in Moose Jaw
- If Found on Your Property
- As an owner or occupant, you are legally required in Saskatchewan to remove Dame’s Rocket, and other noxious weeds, per the Weed Control Act, 2010.
- Failure to comply with an order issued by a municipal weed inspector to eradicate, contain, or control noxious weeds may result in the municipality undertaking control measures at the landowner’s expense.
- Removal methods could include:
- Hand pulling or repeated mowing before the weeds go to seed. Be sure to bag any weeds to prevent its proliferation.
- Application of herbicides. Be sure to follow the directions on the label and any applicable provincial regulations. For more information, contact the Ministry of Agriculture Regional Forage Specialist at the Saskatchewan Agriculture Knowledge Centre at 1-866-457-2377.
- Planting native species after their removal can help prevent reinfestation by Dame’s Rocket.
- If found on City Property (including parks, boulevards, or rights-of-way)
- Please report these sightings through ‘Report an Issue’ on MooseJaw.ca or through the City of Moose Jaw app under Parks & Green Spaces > Weeds, with as much detail as possible, and crews will investigate.
Further Resources:
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