Meet the Researcher: Ryan Briscoe Runquist

SPOTLIGHT SERIES

Research Associate  | she/her/hers

What are common tansy and leafy spurge, and where are they found?

Common tansy and leafy spurge are two invasive plant species found throughout all of Minnesota. Both species were introduced from Eurasia. Leafy spurge was brought to North America in at least three separate introductions in the 1800’s. Common tansy was brought to North America as a horticultural and medicinal plant in the 1600’s, but has been present in Minnesota since the 1800’s.

 
Both species are perennial, meaning that they die back in the fall but return year after year. They can be spread to new places easily through seeds and once established they produce vast vegetative mats that can cover large areas quickly.   

Leafy spurge is very common throughout all of Minnesota and is particularly prevalent in central areas of the state. Common tansy is more common in northern Minnesota and the Iron Range area. However, both species can be found from the Arrowhead region in the northeast to the Pipestone in the southwest.

Ryan