Dame’s rocket
(Hesperis matronalis)
This native of Eurasia can be a biennial or perennial. It has the appearance of a native wildflower with attractive white to purple four-petaled flowers. At maturity, the plant can be from 1 to 4 feet tall with lance-shaped, hairy 2 to 4 inch long leaves. The plant reproduces solely by seed and is most commonly found on sites with well-drained soils in full sun to partially shaded areas.
Dame’s rocket can still be found in some wildflower mixes so care should be taken to not plant this species due to its ability to quickly escape cultivated areas. It has been found in No Name and along Midland Avenue in Glenwood Springs.