Garlic Mustard (Alliaria petiolata)
Mustard family

EDRR Early Detection Rapid Response: If found, report immediately! Contact the Juneau Invasive Weed Coordinator at (907) 586-6878.
Downtown Juneau has the only known infestation of Garlic Mustard in Alaska!

Plant Identification: First year plants are rosettes of dark, green, kidney-shaped leaves up to 4 inches in diameter with distinct leaf veins and scalloped edges. Second year plants have basal leaves that are kidney shaped and slender-stalked. The sharply-toothed, triangular leaves alternate on the stem. Typically a biennial, though known to adapt to our climate and produce seed in the first year. Each plant can produce 8,000 seeds. Crushed leaves smell like garlic. Plants have one flowering stem with numerous white flowers that have four separated petals.

Threat: Regarded as one of the worst invasive plants in many states because of its ability to colonize natural areas, garlic mustard can dominate the understory of forested areas and out-compete native species for light, moisture, nutrients, and space. It readily spreads into undisturbed forests completely dominating and displacing native plants. It appears to effect populations and alter habitat suitability for native birds, mammals, and amphibians. In disturbed areas, Continuous disturbance promotes greater seed production.

Found: Only two known infestations of Garlic Mustard exist in Alaska-- both are in Juneau.

Distribution Map: Garlic Mustard (Alliaria petiolata) (External Link to EDDMapS website)

Additional Information:
Detailed information sheet (Link to .pdf at UAA ENRI Alaska Natural Heritage Program)
Garlic Mustard Information for Landowners (.pdf, 259 kb, courtesy NRCS)

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