Holiday closure Monday May 28: Most county offices will be closed in observance of Memorial Day.

To offer a suggestion or report an error on the King County Noxious Weeds Web site, please contact Sasha Shaw, education specialist.

King County, Washington noxious weed identification and control

Herb robert
Geranium robertianum

Herb Robert Flower Closeup - click for larger imageHerb Robert escaped from ornamental plantings and thrives in forested communities as the dominant ground cover, displacing native and beneficial plants.

Herb Robert's 5-petaled flowers are in all shades of pink and sometimes white. Overall the plant is covered with short glandular hairs, giving the plant a sticky feel and a distinct odor (sometimes this plant is known as "stinky Bob"). Shallow, weak roots make this plant easy to pull although large infestations can be highly labor-intensive to remove.

Legal status in King County, Washington

This Class B non-designate noxious weed is widespread in western Washington. Control is recommended, but not required in King County.herb Robert plants

Additional information on herb robert

Herb robert photos - click thumbnail for larger image

Herb Robert rosette - click for larger image Herb Robert Ivy Blackberry herb robert infestation near Skykomish - click for larger image

Related information

Related agencies


Program offices are located at 201 S. Jackson St., Suite 600, Seattle, WA 98104. To contact a staff member at the King County Noxious Weed Control Program, please call 206-296-0290 or by reach them by email.