Skip to content Accessibility What's New Complain or Comment Website Feedback Form
Leicestershire County Council rated a 4 Star Council
home your
council
business community education environment
& waste
leisure &
tourism
roads &
transport
social
care
You are here: Home > Roads and Transport > Roads & Paths > Dangerous and Invasive Weeds > Ragwort
 Bookmark this page
Share/Save/Bookmark
 feedback on this page

Ragwort

Ragwort Flowers
Common Ragwort might be pleasing to the eye, but it is potentially fatal to horses and livestock, so needs to be controlled.
In its early stages, the Ragwort plant is found as rosettes growing low to the ground, but in its second year it flowers and grows upwards.
The weed can also be harmful to humans and should not be touched. Its toxin can enter into the bloodstream through the skin.
Farmers and Horse owners should be especially wary, and try to ensure good ground coverage on the animals grazing fields. Ragwort grows especially well on overgrazed land and because of the lack of cover is likely to be eaten by animals. Denser grasses means Ragwort is less likely to invade, leaving less exposure to horses, which can develop a liking to the taste.
Like many weeds, Ragwort can grow in most conditions, but thrives most in well-drained soils. Without proper removal, Ragwort will spread and return year after year.
If you find Ragwort within the highway do not attempt to dispose of it yourself. Note the location and call our Customer Service Centre on 0116 305 0001.

Further information and links

Ragwort

further information

Customer Service Centre
Highways and Streetlighting
Leicestershire County Council
County Hall
Glenfield
Leicester
LE3 8ST
Email: customerservices@leics.gov.uk
Phone: 0116 305 0001
Fax: 0116 305 0006
Minicom: 0116 305 0007
Last Updated:
14 January 2010
© Leicestershire County Council - LCC is not responsible for the content of external internet sites