Odontites vernus aka Red Bartsia

Odontites vernus, also known as red bartsia, is a wild flower belonging to the family Orobanchaceae. It is native to Europe and Asia and has become an alien species in North America. This plant thrives in low-fertility soils and partially parasitizes the roots of grasses. It blooms with pinkish and red flowers from June to September and is pollinated by bees and wasps. Red bartsia prefers dry conditions and full sun exposure. However, it has been disappearing from woodland locations in Dorset, England over the past 70 years. In Manitoba, Canada, it is considered a weed. Red bartsia is an annual plant that can grow up to 50cm tall. It has slender, upright, and downy stems with oblong to lance-shaped, toothed leaves. The flowers are pink and two-lipped, arranged in spike-like clusters on the top half of the stem. This plant is commonly found in grasslands and is semi-parasitic on grass roots. In terms of control, cultivation and growing competitive crops can limit red bartsia infestations. However, this may not always be feasible in areas with unsuitable soil conditions. Spraying with 2,4-D amine or 2,4-D LV ester at a rate of 0.6 L/acre can also be effective, especially when applied early in the plant's growth. Monitoring and respraying may be necessary if new seedlings appear. However, there are currently no selective chemical recommendations for controlling red bartsia in grass/legume mixes without harming the legumes. Ongoing research suggests that Sencor and Basagran may show potential for controlling the weed in alfalfa, but further study is needed. Maintaining well-managed and well-fertilized crops is also beneficial in crowding out red bartsia.