(Johnson County, Tx) – Those yellow clumps of blossoms you see along the road are not another pretty wildflower, it’s actually an invasive weed called Bastard Cabbage and it’s taking over large sections of wildflowers, including Bluebonnets.

Johnson County AgriLife Extension agent Justin Hale tells the Cleburne Times Review, the weed has such broad leaves that make it hard for the seeds of native plants underneath it to germinate.  Hale said Johnson County experienced a “really wet winter,” which helped the weed flourish.

Bastard Cabbage thrives in wet soil and can be spread through contaminated grass seed mixes or mulching materials and can grow up to 5 feet or more in height.