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Toxic Plant: Alfombrilla or Sandwort Drymary (Drymaria

arenarioides)

Location: States of Chihuahua, Sonora, Durango, Zacatecas, and San Luis Potosi Mexico

Affected Livestock: Cattle, sheep, goats, and wildlife

Alfombrilla currently does not exist in Arizona; however, this species has the potential to spread into the state through Mexico. It is known to occur in Mexico approximately 1/4 mile south of New Mexico's border and 80 miles south of Arizona's border. Recently a ranch in southern New Mexico experienced cattle losses due to alfombrilla, but the extent of the New Mexico population distribution is currently unknown.  Arizona ranchers near New Mexico or the southern border should be on the lookout for this species as is poses a potential threat to ranagelands and livestock.  Alfombrilla produces many tiny seeds that can easily be transported in hooves, animal hides, and truck or trailer tires.

Alfombrilla is a non-woody range weed, growing from four to ten inches in height, its grey-green, sticky foliage has small, needle-like leaves, with white flowers, and brown, pinhead-sized seeds. Spring and summer rains trigger its blooming seasons.

Affected Livestock: Cattle, sheep, goats, and wildlife are affected. The plant contains saponins which may contribute to animal bloat.

Symptoms (can vary): Loss of appetite, diarrhea, restlessness, arching of animal's back, depression, coma, and death. It is said that less severe cases of poisoning recovery may take about two days.

Treatment: Remove animals from problem grazing area. Provide shade, fresh water and quality hay. Contact veterinarian immediately.

NOTE : This plant is toxic to livestock and wildlife and has recently been found in New Mexico.  Gila County ranchers need to be on the lookout because little is known about the distribution of this plant in Arizona.