This website is the English version of our Dutch Ragwort
website. Recently, Ragwort has received quite a bit of media
coverage. Many facts are presented, but also many myths. It is,
for instance, a fact that species of Ragwort are poisonous to
mammals, but it is a myth that an animal dies if it ingests only
a mouthful. It is also a fact that Ragwort is poisonous to
humans, but a myth that it is a serious health hazard to people.
Furthermore, it is a fact that Ragwort is currently more common
in the Netherlands than 30 years ago, but a myth that this
species is an extremely efficient wind disperser. Although
Ragworts can be a significant nuisance to horse keepers, these
species are a very important source of nectar and pollen. About
150 species of insects, such as bees, flies and butterflies,
visit the plant. Therefore, even it were possible, eradicating
the plant is not a desirable option. We will have to find other
ways to protect our livestock. There are no easy solutions to
the Ragwort problem, but that do