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You might think you’re familiar with the various weeds that can grow in your lawn, but if you live in the southeastern United States, you may encounter an invasive newcomer: Chevreul’s sharp lawn-weed, also known as skyseed (Chevreulia acuminata). Native to South America, it’s now made its way over to the U.S., and can quickly take over your yard. Its presence is known in Georgia, Alabama, and both South and North Carolina, but it’s possible that it may spread elsewhere. Once it’s established, it competes with native plants and grasses, potentially smothering them while spreading. Since it’s easily distributed, it’s imperative that you remove skyseed after identification before it takes over completely.

Research on skyseed is evolving, and experts still find it a bit of a mystery. First reported in North America only in 2012, some homeowners can easily mistake it for other weeds, and identifying it in your yard is definitely tricky. In addition, because it’s so new to this continent, landing on a viable eradication strategy may feel challenging. Once you know how to recognize this weed, removal is possible by pulling it out by hand or by using suitable herbicides. 

Growing in low, dense mats, this perennial’s foliage often goes unnoticed as it stays below the height of the grass, only to be spotted once it flowers. If you suspect you may have skyseed growth in your yard, examine it as closely as possible to ensure you aren’t dealing with a similar weed. Experts describe it as having “creeping” stems with leaves that look like grass. At its base sit phyllaries, or leaf-like bracts. Both the leaves’ upper and lower parts are covered with tiny soft hairs (with more hairs on the underside). 

Experts estimate that flowering, with small, quarter-size blooms, occurs in spring or very early summer. Skyseed bears small white seedheads that closely resemble a dandelion’s, with fluffy balls that sit atop a 6-inch stalk.  After maturation, the seeds detach for wind distribution and spread quickly. The weed eventually browns, leaving round patches in the grass. Like other dandelion look-a-likes in your lawn, this weed demands quick and effective removal. One way to remove these weeds from your garden is with a three-way broadleaf weed herbicide that contains 2,4-D (also known as Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid). If you’ve never bought this type of herbicide before, look for a suitable option, such as Lesco Three-Way Selective Post Emergent Liquid Herbicide. You can also dig the weed out by hand, being sure to remove the entire root system.