The sedge genus Kyllinga consists of 40 to 45 species distributed in tropical, subtropical, and warm temperate regions around the world (KUkenthal 1936; Tucker 1987). This genus of low rhizomatous perennials or cespitose annuals is classified in the large cosmopolitan family Cyperaceae. Many Kyllinga species are considered weedy (Holm et al. 1979; Tucker 1987), while Kyllinga nervosa Steudel is considered an important forage plant in Africa (McNaughton 1985).

The English daisy, Bellis perennis L., is a widespread lawn weed and a bane to those who favor daisy-free lawns and golf courses. The genetic name Bellis, a designation used by Pliny, means “pretty”; perennis means “through the years,” “continuing,” or “perennial” (Gledhill 1985; Mabberley 1989). While pretty, the English daisy is a persistent weed that spreads by short stolons (Tutin et al. 1976). It is a member of the cosmopolitan family Compositae, which encompasses 1,100 genera and 25,000 species (Heywood 1993). The genus Bellis comprises about 15 European and Mediterranean species. Some of them are medicinal and some are cultivated ornamentals, especially forms of B. perennis. The signature of this species is a flower head that Closes at night and in wet weather (Tutin et al. 1976).

Fumitory (Fumaria officinalis L.) is a member of Fumariaceae, a family of annual and perennial herbs, whose best-known genera, in addition to Fumaria, are Corydalis and Dicentra (bleeding heart and Dutchman's breeches). Fumariaceae is mainly a temperate family that embraces 16 genera and 400 species. Economically, its use is limited to garden ornamentals (Heywood 1993). Brummitt (1992) and Hyam and Pankhurst (1995) place fumitory in Papaveraceae, but most authorities, including Mabberley (1989), put it in Fumariaceae.

My remarks today will be largely devoted to assessing some of the effects of the Food Quality Protection Act of 1996. As introduced, the act had wide support among grower groups, the food industry, and the pesticide industry. Voting on the bill was unanimous in both House and Senate, and action was completed in 1 wk. The legislation was signed by the President on August 3, 1996. President Clinton wanted to be seen as a strong advocate of children's health. The Republican Congress wanted to show that it was pro-environment.