Family: Amaranthaceae Scientific name: Bassia scoparia Description: Plant Form Fast-growing annual herb. Size Up to 1.5 m tall. Stem Erect with many upward curving side stems. Green or yellow to pink or pale brown. Leaves Narrow lance shaped, up to 6 cm long, alternately arranged along stems. Green to yellow, red and brown. With hairy edges and veins on underside. Flowers Same colour as leaves, single or in pairs, inconspicuous, on hairy spikes where the leaves and stems join. Fruit and Seeds Star shaped, very small, 2 mm diameter, with 1.5 mm wide brown single seed. Habitat Cropping areas, pastures, riparian areas, rangelands. Distinguishing Features Is generally leafier than Bassia hyssopifolia and late in the season tends to develop reddish stems. Impacts Reduces cereal and other crop production, toxic in high doses, increases fire risk.