Tumbleweed
Created | Updated Jan 28, 2002
The Tumbleweed, also known as the Russian Thistle, its scientific name is Salsola Kali
Is a herbacious warm-season weed that can grow to up to 1.2 metres in height. It becomes woody when it matures. Each plant then breaks off, and rolls about in the wind like we have all seen in the Clint Eastwood movies) Whilst in transit, it will spread up to 20 to 50 thousand seeds.
Originating in Russia, the tumbleweed made its way to the Americas in the 19th century, by its seeds being mixed in grain imports.
Although considered a noxious weed, this annual plant seems to have some uses.
Tumbleweed is used by cattle ranchers, and sheep farmers as an alternative food source when there is an extreme shortage of feed. However, it is not considered desirable, as the high concentration of mineral salts, can cause a laxative effect. So its probably not a good idea to eat tumbleweed if you ever find yourself stranded in the desert.
Tumbleweed is even farmed in several states in the USA. California, Nevada, Texas, and Kansas all boast Tumbleweed Farms. They sell them as ornaments, and props for films, across the world. One such company claims each tumbleweed is individually tested,if they do not tumble, we do not sell them!
Is a herbacious warm-season weed that can grow to up to 1.2 metres in height. It becomes woody when it matures. Each plant then breaks off, and rolls about in the wind like we have all seen in the Clint Eastwood movies) Whilst in transit, it will spread up to 20 to 50 thousand seeds.
Originating in Russia, the tumbleweed made its way to the Americas in the 19th century, by its seeds being mixed in grain imports.
Although considered a noxious weed, this annual plant seems to have some uses.
Tumbleweed is used by cattle ranchers, and sheep farmers as an alternative food source when there is an extreme shortage of feed. However, it is not considered desirable, as the high concentration of mineral salts, can cause a laxative effect. So its probably not a good idea to eat tumbleweed if you ever find yourself stranded in the desert.
Tumbleweed is even farmed in several states in the USA. California, Nevada, Texas, and Kansas all boast Tumbleweed Farms. They sell them as ornaments, and props for films, across the world. One such company claims each tumbleweed is individually tested,if they do not tumble, we do not sell them!
