Studies on herbicidal activity of parthenin, a constituent of Parthenium hysterophorus, towards billgoat weed (Ageratum conyzoides)

Parthenin, a constituent of Parthenium hysterophorus, was evaluated for herbicidal activity against Ageratum conyzoides (billgoat weed) under irt vitro conditions. It inhibited/retarded germination of A, conyzoides at concentrations ranging from 0.02 to 0.1 mg/ml. Radicle elongation and seedling length were severely reduced. The germination of wheat, however, remained unaffected at similar concentrations. The study, therefore, paves a way for possible exploitation of parthenin as a selective herbicide.