The African rue is a noxious weed that is invasive to the state of New Mexico. Native to North Africaand to the Mediterranean region, it is highly drought resistant and displays rapid and aggressivegrowth whenever soil moisture is available. Seeds and root fragments are transported by runningwater and can be carried in mud. African Rue seed-riddled mud is often transported by vehicles,railcars, earth-moving equipment and animal and human extremities –which easily spreads thespecies growth area. The African Rue plant is very versatile and can easily grow in a wide variety ofareas and soil types. Furthermore, the African Rue perennial root system is very strong and complex innature. Taproot branches can grow up to 20 feet deep (to follow water). Therefore, it is nearlyimpossible to control the plant using only mechanical techniques. Plants grow back rapidly afterburning. Mowing causes the plant to quickly sprout and spread. Therefore, methods such as handpulling, digging, hoeing, or burning are not recommended. Due to their aggressive nature, the AfricanRue typically prohibits growth of surrounding plant life.
