Download Cape ivy factsheet - Otago Regional Council

PEST INFO
Fact sheet published by:
Cape Ivy
(Senecio angulatus)
Otago Regional Council
70 Stafford Street
Private Bag 1954
Dunedin
Cape ivy is more a scrambling shrub than a true climber. It is often found in dry
open sites on the coast.
Why is cape ivy a pest plant?
Telephone: 03 474 0827
Freephone: 0800 474 082
Fax: 03 479 0015
Website: www.orc.govt.nz
Cape ivy grows rapidly over the ground
smothering all species of low stature. It can
also scramble over and smother native shrubs
up to 2 metres tall.
Native coastal vegetation and forest remnants
are threatened by its vigorous and heavy
growth.
How do I identify cape ivy?
Flowers are yellow and daisy-like,
typically 25cm in diameter
The dark green leaves are thick, fleshy succulent, broadly diamond shape, with a
few toothed margins and thick stems often with a red purple tinge. Flowers are
conspicuous yellow, daisy-like and borne in winter.
Cape ivy can spread rapidly by runners and the production of numerous suckers.
Branch tips may arch over, forming new plants. Small fragments can sprout roots
and grow. The numerous fluffy seeds are spread by wind.
Suggested control options
Manual control methods include slashing, weed-eating, mowing, rotary slashing and
grubbing. Use of these methods, however, will usually result in some regrowth
occurring. Dig out small infestations and dispose of roots and stems by putting them
in a black plastic bag and leave to rot in the sun or take the sealed bag to a landfill.
For best results, cut stems and immediately apply herbicide: Versatill® or Tordon®
during active growth periods. Use herbicides at application rates recommended by
the manufacturer and wear protective clothing.
Disclaimer: Mention of product tradenames does not endorse these products nor implies criticism of
similar products not mentioned Although this fact sheet has been prepared in good faith the Otago Regional
Council does not give any warranty that the information is accurate or complete or that it is suitable for all
circumstances.
Control of this pest plant is not a one-off task. Follow up action must be regularly
undertaken. The site should be checked for regrowth and seedling establishment.
Land occupier obligations
Under the Pest Management Strategy for Otago, residents of Otago are required to
destroy any cape ivy on their property.
Any breach of this rule is an offence under Section 154(r) of the Biosecurity Act 1993,
and may result in default work under Section 128 of the Act.
Printed July 2005