How to Eradicate Buffalo Bur

Buffalo Bur got their name from attaching themselves to buffalo as they grazed.

Buffalo Bur (solanum rostratum dunal) is a poisonous member of the nightshade family that should be eradicated wherever it is found across the U.S. The Buffalo Bur grows one- to two-feet tall and produces yellow flowers. It is covered in long, yellow spines that cause pain when they pierce the skin. The leaves and fruit are poisonous to animals and humans. The fruit matures to a bur, which attaches itself to passing animals and people.

Instructions

1. Don your protective clothing and gloves before attempting to remove the Buffalo Bur as their spines can cause injury. The plants should be removed before seeding to prevent dispersal. You can pull out, dig up or mow the plants to effectively remove them.

2. Maintain plant cover to prevent the Buffalo Bur from springing up. They are not competitive plants and can be effectively controlled in this way.

3. Use herbicides as a last resort. You can use Dicama, Picloram, Triclopyr or 2,4-D to effectively eradicate Buffalo Bur.

Tips & Warnings

• Herbicides are highly toxic and should be used with the utmost caution. Follow all instructions on the label and use only on plants indicated in the instructions. Store herbicides in a safe place out of the reach of children and animals.

References

• Buffalobur
• Buffalobur Nightshade