Common Ragweed—Ambrosia artemisiifolia L.: A Review with Special Regards to the Latest Results in Biology and Ecology

Abstract

Weeds are responsible for a significant proportion of agricultural production losses. Common ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia L.) has become the dominant weed in much of the northern hemisphere over the last century and is projected to further expand northward with climate warming. Not only does it cause damage to agriculture, but it also poses a significant human health risk. With the increasing number of Ambrosia artemisiifolia, around 44 million more people will suffer from ragweed pollen-induced pollinosis in the future just in Europe. The following review provides an overview of the most important and recent research findings on the spread, morphology, life cycle, importance and damage, allelopathic effects, habitat and environmental requirements of common ragweed. These characteristics of the species may explain its success and, based on this knowledge, allow the development of methods for its control.