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NOXIOUS WEEDS nsw far north coast CONTENTS Why are weeds such a problem?..............................1 Plant physiology and ecology....................................2 About Rous County Council - Weed biosecurity........4 Control methods........................................................5 Detailed control techniques.......................................6 Weed classifications................................................10 Noxious weed declarations for the NSW Far North Coast.......................................... 11 Aleman grass....... 16 Alligator weed....... 17 Bitou bush............ 18 Broad-leaf pepper tree.................... 19 Cats claw creeper.. 20 Cecropia............... 21 Chinese celtis....... 22 Chinese tallow tree.................... 23 Chinese violet....... 24 Eurasion water milfoil................. 25 Giant devils fig...... 26 Green cestrum...... 27 Grounsel bush...... 28 Honey locust......... 29 Horsetail............... 30 Hymenachne........ 31 Kidney leaf mud plantain.............. 32 Kosters curse....... 33 Kudzu................... 34 Miconia................. 35 Mikania vine......... 36 Mysore thorn........ 37 Paper mulberry..... 38 Parthenium weed. 39 Pond apple........... 40 Senegal tea plant.. 41 Siam weed............ 42 Tropical soda apple.................. 43 Water lettuce........ 44 White blackberry/ Mysore raspberry.45 Witchweed............ 46 Yellow bells........... 47 How you can help....................................................48 Identify a weed........................................................49 Our contact details.................................... back cover Cover (left to right from top): Cecropia, Kosters curse, Alligator weed, Chinese tallow, Bitou bush, Giant devils fig. WHY ARE WEEDS SUCH A PROBLEM? Traditionally weeds have been thought of as a problem of the rural sector where they posed economic restraints on the landholder. In urban communities, weeds were considered a ‘nuisance’ rather than a hazard as they supposedly posed no economic, environmental or health problems in those areas. During the last decade the community has become more aware of problems associated with noxious weeds. Increase in public concern about land degradation, allergenic weeds and deterioration of the environment has resulted in a shift in urban community attitudes regarding noxious and environmental weeds. The long-term solution to noxious weeds problems lies with all stakeholders: • • • state government local government NSW Dept of Primary Industries • • • • statutory authorities private landholders Bushcare groups the community working together using effective and legal weed control practices. Cats claw creeper. 1 Plant Physiology and Ecology To have effective weed management, you need an understanding of each weed’s physiology and ecology. Weeds have optimal growing conditions of temperature, light, moisture and soil types. Weed dispersal and proliferation depends on the plant’s ability to spread. Each weed has a different combination of dispersal methods; the rate of spread or dispersal may depend on: • • • • • • 2 wind water, especially nutrified urban runoff birds and animals physical transplanting by human activities rubbish dumping inappropriate urban development • • inappropriate fire regimes movement by domestic, commercial and recreational vehicles and heavy machinery. Noxious weeds tend to have a broad geographical range and non-specific environmental requirements. This allows them to establish in a wide variety of habitats. They may also produce large quantities of seed with high viability and multiple dispersal vectors. Understanding the reproductive capability, methods of propagation and weed dispersal vectors is essential to form a strategy for each species and thus minimise reinfestation and further spread. Left: Illegal dumping. Below: Broad-leaf pepper tree. 3 rous county council Council’s weed biosecurity activities cover the Tweed, Byron, Ballina, Lismore City, Richmond Valley and Kyogle shires. Rous County Council - Weed biosecurity, is the Local Control Authority for noxious weeds in the Northern Rivers region. Our goals are to: • Exclude new noxious weeds (prevent them establishing in our region) • Eradicate or contain any new noxious weeds found in our region (eliminate them or stop their spread) • Effectively manage the impacts of widespread invasive noxious weeds species, and • Build capacity in our region to help the community, industry and government commit to long-term management of invasive noxious weeds. To achieve this we focus on: • Identification and management of high-risk weed species and how they spread into and within our region • Improving our capacity to find new weeds early • Ensuring we have the resources and procedures to take rapid strategic control measures against new weeds in our region • Directing our resources to where benefits will be the greatest, and • Increasing community commitment and involvement in proactive weed management. 4 CONTROL METHODS Each of the following weed pages includes symbols indicating which control methods, shown below, to use. Hand removal Suitable for plants that regrow from bulbs, tubers or other plant parts (such as runners). Hand pull or dig the seedlings. Stem scrape Suitable for vines and some woody plants. Scrape one side of the stem to expose the growing layer; apply glyphosate-based herbicide immediately to the scrape. STEM INJECTION Suitable for woody weeds and trees. Cut and paint Suitable for vines without aerial tubers. Cut all stems and apply glyphosate-based herbicide immediately. Cut stump Suitable for woody plants. Cut the trunk and apply glyphosate-based herbicide immediately. Frill Suitable for trees. Make horizontal cuts around the trunk to depth of growing layer and apply glyphosate-based herbicide immediately. BASAL BARK SPRAYING Suitable for thin-barked woody weeds and undesirable trees. Low volume spraying Suitable for weeds that are less than 1m in height. Spray with a herbicide that is registered for that weed. Do not spray woody weeds, shrubs or vines over 1m in height. HIGH VOLUME SPRAYING Suitable for most woody weeds shrubs or vines. Spray with a herbicide that is registered for that weed. B Biological control Biocontrol agents are available for this weed. For more information, contact your local Council. 5 DETAILED CONTROL TECHNIQUES USING HERBICIDES Source: Noxious and environmental week control handbook 6th edition. Herbicides are commonly used for controlling weeds in agricultural and non-agricultural situations, and there are many types of equipment and techniques available for applying them. The appropriate option will be determined by the size of the infestation, the available resources, access and personal preferences. The most commonly used application techniques are listed and described below. Always remember to read the product label and any relevant permit before using a herbicide. Cut stump Here the plant is cut off completely at its base (no higher than 15cm from the ground) using a chainsaw, axe, brushcutter or machete (depending on the thickness of the stem/trunk). Herbicide is then sprayed, squirted or painted on to the exposed surface of the cut stump emerging from the ground, killing the stump and the root system. It is imperative that the herbicide solution is applied as soon as the trunk or stem is cut. A delay of more than 15 seconds between cutting and applying the chemical will give poor results. Two operators working as a team can use this method effectively. The herbicide can be applied from a knapsack, or with a paintbrush, drench gun or a hand spray bottle. A coloured dye should be used in the solution to mark the stumps that have been treated. This method has the appeal of removing the weed immediately, and is used mainly for trees and woody weeds. Cut and swab This method is similar to the cut stump method, but is suited to vines and multi-stemmed shrubs. Here, the plant stems are cut through completely, close to the ground. Herbicide is then applied immediately to the cut surface emerging from the ground, via spray or brush application. In the case of Madeira vine and some other vines with aerial tubers, both ends of the cut stems must be treated with herbicide. 6 Always use herbicides according to the product label. Contact Council for further information and advice on spraying weeds with herbicide. Stem-scraping This method is also called bark-stripping or stem-painting. Stem- scraping is used for plants and vines with aerial tubers. A sharp knife is used to scrape a very thin layer of bark from a 15–30cm section of the stem. Herbicide is then immediately applied to the exposed soft underlying green tissue. In the case of Madeira vine, all tubers within reach should be collected, removed and composted or destroyed before starting the scraping. With some woody weeds the bark can be peeled away and the exposed wood painted or sprayed with herbicide. Stem injection methods Herbicide is placed immediately into holes or cuts made by drilling or cutting through the bark into the sapwood tissue in the trunks of woody weeds and trees. The aim is to reach the sapwood layer just under the bark (the cambium), where the chemical will be transported throughout the plant. It is essential to apply the herbicide immediately (within 15 seconds of drilling the hole or cutting the trunk), as stem injection relies on the active uptake and growth of the plant to move the chemical through its tissues. Stem injection methods kill the tree or shrub where it stands, and only trees and shrubs that can be safely left to die and rot should be treated this way. If the tree or shrub is to be felled, allow it to die completely before felling. Stem injection – drill and fill method This method is for trees and woody weeds with stems or trunks greater than 5cm in circumference. A battery-powered drill is used to make downward-angled holes in the sapwood approximately 5cm apart. Herbicide is then injected in measured doses using a backpack reservoir and syringe. Stem injection – axe cut method The axe cut method can be used for trees and woody weeds 7 with stems or trunks greater than 5cm in circumference. Using an axe or tomahawk, horizontal cuts are made into the sapwood around the circumference of the trunk at waist height. While still in the cut, the axe or tomahawk is leaned out to make a downward angled pocket, which will allow herbicide to pool. The herbicide is then immediately injected into the pocket. Cuts should be made no farther than 3cm apart. This method is also referred to as frilling or chipping. It is important not to entirely ringbark the trunk, as this will decrease the uptake of the herbicide into the plant. Tree spearing Tree spearing is an alternative stem injection method to the use of an axe or drill. The method uses a specifically designed tree spear and technique. The spear is thrust into the tree at an angle of 30° to 40° from the vertical, opening a cut in the tree and applying the appropriate herbicide amount. The process is repeated, forming a row of cuts approximately 50 mm apart. Low volume spraying Gas guns or splatter guns apply a low volume of high concentration, translocatable herbicide to the foliage of an infestation (generally woody weeds). The herbicide is squirted from a gas-powered gun, placing very large droplets onto the leaves from 6–10m away. The splatter is arched over the tops of bushes and down their sides at specific intervals (refer to product labels for exact rates). Only a small portion of the foliage needs to be treated, minimising off-target damage and reducing chemical usage. This technique allows for specific targeting of the herbicide and a marker dye is necessary to identify treated areas. High volume spraying High volume (foliar) spraying is the use of herbicide diluted with water at a specific rate, and sprayed over the foliage to the point of runoff (until every leaf is wetted, but not dripping). 8 It is suitable for shrubs, grasses and dense vines where complete coverage can be achieved. Advantages include speed of application and economy. Disadvantages include the potential for spray drift and off-target damage. Foliar spraying can be done a number of ways, depending on the size of the weed plant and/or the infestation. Blanket spraying using a boom spray mounted on a vehicle can be used to treat large areas with infestations up to 1m in height. Taller infestations, or those with difficult access, can be sprayed with a handgun connected by a hose to a herbicide tank and pump, carried by a tractor or vehicle. Smaller infestations can be sprayed using a backpack/knapsack spray unit. Spot spraying is treating individual weed plants, areas that have only small clumps of weed infestations, or regrowth areas. Basal bark spraying An oil-soluble herbicide is mixed with diesel and sprayed around the full circumference of the trunk or stem of the plant. It works for plants with basal diameters up to 10cm and heights of 30 to 100cm (check herbicide product labels as some plants can only be treated if their basal diameter is less than 5cm). The diesel helps move the herbicide through the bark and into the underground storage organs of the plant, slowly killing it. The whole circumference of the stem or trunk must be sprayed or painted with herbicide solution from ground level to a height of 30cm. It is important to saturate the full circumference of the trunk, and to treat every stem or trunk arising from the ground. Basal bark spraying is suitable for thin-barked woody weeds and undesirable trees, and is also an effective way to treat saplings, regrowth and multi-stemmed shrubs and weeds in inaccessible areas, such as steep banks. It creates little or no spray drift or off-target damage, and will usually control difficult-to-kill weeds at any time of the year, as long as the bark is not wet or too thick for the diesel to penetrate. 9 WEED CLASSIFICATIONS Noxious Weeds The Noxious Weeds Act 1993 is an instrument serving the protection of our environment, general health of the community and agricultural production. Under the Act all noxious weeds must be controlled. The act applies to all landowners and occupiers. Weeds of national significance Thirty-two Weeds of National Significance (WoNS) have been identified by Australian governments based on their invasiveness, potential for spread and environmental, social and economic impacts. A list of 20 WoNS was endorsed in 1999 and a further 12 were added in 2012. All WoNS are a priority for control in the Rous County Council area regardless of whether they are a declared noxious weed. These weeds are: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • African boxthorn Alligator weed Asparagus weeds Athel pine Bellyache bush Bitou bush/boneseed Blackberry Bridal creeper Brooms Cabomba Cats claw creeper Chilean needle grass Fireweed Gamba grass Gorse Hymenachne Lantana • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Madeira vine Mesquite Mimosa Opuntioid cacti (Prickly pear) Parkinsonia Parthenium weed Pond apple Prickly acacia Rubber vine Sagittaria Salvinia Serrated tussock Silverleaf nightshade Water hyacinth Willows. Environmental weeds These have not been declared noxious, but it is still important that environmental weeds be destroyed as they can also affect human health, or can be invasive in the natural environment, killing the native flora and reducing the natural biodiversity. Native animals may also be affected due to the loss of their natural habitat. 10 Noxious weed declarations FOR NSW FAR NORTH COAST The table below is taken from Weed Control Orders, published in the NSW Government Gazette, which detail weeds declared noxious in NSW under the Noxious Weeds Act 1993. This lists the weed, control class and control requirements for each species declared in a local control area. Legend Class Explanation 1 The plant must be eradicated from the land and the land must be kept free of the plant. Owners or occupiers of land must notify Rous County Council - Weed biosecurity within 24 hours of becoming aware that the weed is present. 2 These plants must be eradicated from the land and the land must be kept free of the plant. Owners or occupiers of land must notify Rous County Council - Weed biosecurity within 24 hours of becoming aware that the weed is present. 3 The plant must be continuously suppressed and destroyed. 4 The growth of the plant must be managed in a manner that continuously inhibits the ability of the plant to spread and the plant must not be sold, propagated or knowingly distributed. 4* The plant must not be sold, propagated or knowingly distributed. 5 Owners or occupiers of land must notify their local control authority (Rous County Council - Weed biosecurity) within 24 hours after becoming aware of the unnatural spread of these weeds on land, or the sale of same. Common name Botanical name African boxthorn African feather grass Lycium ferocissimum Cenchrus macrourus or Pennisetum macrourum Sisymbrium runcinatum and Sisymbrium thellungii Echinochloa polystachya Alternanthera philoxeroides Eichhornia azurea African turnip weed Aleman grass Alligator weed Anchored water hyacinth Class 4* 5 5 2 2 1 11 Common name Botanical name Annual ragweed Ambrosia artemisiifolia 5 Arrowhead Sagittaria calycina variety calycina (syn. Sagittaria montevidensis subspecies calycina) Cynara cardunculus Asparagus virgatus (syn. Protasparagus virgatus) Tamarix aphylla Xanthium species 4* Festuca gautieri or Festuca scorparia Jatropha gossypiifolia Chrysanthenoides monilifera subspecies rotundata 5 Chrysanthenoides monilifera subspecies rotundata Rubus fruticosus Centaurea xmoncktonii Salix nigra Chrysanthemoides monilifera subspecies monilifera Asparagus asparagoides (syn. Myrsiphyllum asparagoides, Asparagus medeoloides) Asparagus declinatus (syn. Asparagus crispus, Myrsiphyllum declinatum) Schinus terebinthifolius 3 Artichoke thistle Asparagus fern Athel tree / Athel pine Bathurst, Noogoora, Hunter, South American, California/ cockle burrs Bear-skin fescue Bellyache bush Bitou bush – Ballina, Byron, Lismore Kyogle and Richmond Valley Bitou bush – Tweed Shire Blackberry Black knapweed Black willow Boneseed Bridal creeper Bridal veil creeper Broad-leaf pepper tree Broomrapes Burr ragweed Cabomba Camphor laurel Cat’s claw creeper Cayenne snakeweed Cecropia Chilean needle grass Chinese celtis 12 Class 5 2 5 4 2 4 4 1 4 1 4* 1 3 Orobanche species except the native O. cernua variety australiana and O. minor 1 Ambrosia confertiflora All Cabomba species except C. furcata Cinnamomum camphora Dolichandra unguis-cati (syn. Macfadyena unguis-cati) Stachytarpheta cayennensis Cecropia species Nassella neesiana Celtis sinensis 5 5 4 4 5 2 4 4 Common name Botanical name Chinese tallow tree Chinese violet Triadica sebifera Asystasia gangetica subspecies micrantha Climbing asparagus Asparagus africanus (syn. Protasparagus africanus) Clockweed Oenothera curtiflora or Gaura parviflora Cockspur coral tree Erythrina crista-galli Corn sowthistle Sonchus arvensis Dodder All Cuscuta species except the native species C. australis, C. tasmanica and C. Victoriana East Indian hygrophila Hygrophila polysperma / Hygro Espartillo Achnatherum brachychaetum Eurasian water milfoil Myriophyllum spicatum Fine-bristled burr Cenchrus brownii grass Fireweed Senecio madagascariensis Flax-leaf broom Genista linifolia Fountain grass Pennisetum setaceum Frogbit / Spongeplant Limnobium laevigatum and L. spongia Gallons curse Cenchrus biflorus Gamba grass Andropogon gayanus Giant devils fig Solanum chrysotrichum Giant rats tail grass Sporobolus pyramidalis Giant reed / Elephant Arundo donax grass Glaucous star thistle Carthamus glaucus Golden thistle Scolymus hispanicus Green cestrum Cestrum parqui Grey sallow Salix cinerea Ground asparagus Asparagus aethiopicus (syn. Protasparagus aethiopicus) Groundsel bush Baccharis halimifolia Harrisia cactus Harrisia species Hawkweed Honey locust Horsetail Hydrocotyl / Water pennywort Hygrophilia Hymenachne Karoo thorn Class 3 1 2 5 4 5 5 4 5 1 5 4* 4* 5 1 5 5 3 3 4* 5 5 3 2 4* 3 4 Hieracium species Gleditsia triacanthos Equisetum species Hydrocotyle ranunculoides 1 3 1 1 Hygrophilia costata Hymenachne amplexicaulis and hybrids Acacia karroo (syn. Acacia karroo) 2 1 1 13 Common name Botanical name Kidney leaf mud plantain Kochia Heteranthera reniformis 1 Bassia scoparia (syn. Kochia scoporia) except B. scoparia subspecies trichophylla Clidemia hirta 1 Pueraria lobata Lagarosiphon major Lantana species Egeria densa (syn. Elodia densa) Phyla canescens Ludwigia longifolia 3 1 4 4* Berberis lomariifolia (syn. Mahinia lomariifolia) Nassella tenuissima (syn. Stipa tenuissima) Argemone mexicana 3 Miconia species Mikania micrantha Mimosa pigra Asparagus macowanii Genista monspessulana 1 1 1 2 3 Cenchrus echinatus Bryophyllum daigremontianum (syn. Kalanchoe daigremontiana); B. delagoense (syn. K. delagoense, B. tubiflorum, K. tubiflora); B. xhoughtonii (syn. K. xhoughtonii, B. daigremontianumx, B. delagoense, daigremontianumx, B. tubiflorum, K. daigremontianax, K. tubiflora); B. pinnatum (syn. K. pinnata, B. calycinum); B. proliferum (syn. K. prolifera) Caesalpinia decapetala Cortaderia species Broussonetia papyrifera Parthenium hysterophorus Amnona glabra 5 4 Vachellia nilotica (syn. Acacia nilotica) 1 Kosters curse / Clidemia Kudzu Lagarosiphon Lantana Leafy elodea / Dense waterweed / Egeria Lippia Long-leaf willow primrose Mahonia / Chinese holly Mexican feather grass Mexican poppy Miconia Mikania vine Mimosa Ming asparagus fern Montpellier broom / Cape broom Mossman river grass Mother of millions Mysore thorn Pampas grass Paper mulberry Parthenium weed Pond apple Prickly acacia 14 Class 1 4* 2 1 5 3 4 2 1 1 Common name Botanical name Prickly pear Cylindropuntia species 4 Prickly pear Opuntia species except O. ficus-indica Ligustrum ludicum Ligustrum sinense 4 Oryza rufipogon Toxicodendron succedanea Cryptostegia grandiflora Sagittaria platyphylla (syn. Sagittaria graminea variety platyphylla) Salvinia molesta Cytisus scoparius Gymnocoronis spilanthoides Nassella trichotoma Chromolaena odorata Asparagus falcatus Brassica barrelieri subspecies oxyrrhina Picnomon acarna Centaurea maculosa Hypericum perforatum Helianthus ciliaris Solanum viarum Trapa species Pistia stratiotes Stratiotes aloides Rubus niveus 5 4 1 4* Salix species except S. babylonica, S. xreichardtii. S. xcalodendron, S. cinerea and S. nigra Striga sp. except native sp. and Striga parviflora Tecoma stans Limnocharis flava Cyperus esculentus 4* Privet (broad-leaf) Privet (narrow-leaf / Chinese) Red rice Rhus tree Rubbervine Sagittaria Salvinia Scotch broom Senegal tea plant Serrated tussock Siam weed Sicklethorn Smooth-stemmed turnip Soldier thistle Spotted knapweed St Johns wort Texas blueweed Tropical soda apple Water caltrop Water lettuce Water soldier White blackberry / Mysore raspberry Willows Witchweed Yellow bells Yellow burrhead Yellow nutgrass Class 4 4 4 4* 1 4 1 2 5 5 1 4 5 1 1 1 1 3 1 3 1 5 Declarations list correct as of November 2014 15 aLEMAN GRASS Echinochloa polystachya Class 2 Aleman grass is an aquatic or semi-aquatic perennial grass growing to between 1-3m high. Summer flowering, the flower heads are 15-30cm long. Seed production is poor and most spread is vegetative, occurring when stems, runners and roots are moved in water. Growth and localised spread depends on fluctuating water levels. When water levels drop, plants fall over and new shoots are produced from the nodes of decaying stems. Each new shoot then produces an individual plant that continues to grow as water levels rise. Shoots can grow from any node. EFFECTS ON THE ENVIRONMENT Aleman grass will quickly replace native aquatic species, forming a monoculture. It is a serious threat to the wetland and floodplain areas of tropical Australia. Large areas of open water are also at risk of invasion, potentially impacting on fisheries and waterbird habitat. HABITAT Aleman grass originates from tropical and subtropical America. It was introduced to Queensland as a ponded pasture species and now invades seasonally flooded areas, swamps, and banks of watercourses. It has been recognised as a serious crop weed in India, Mexico and Argentina. In southern USA, it is a significant weed of rice crops and crayfish production. It is also considered a weed in Hawaii, Sri Lanka, Chad and Zaire. It forms dense stands in swampy areas and along banks of watercourses and is able to grow in water up to 2m deep. CONTROL METHOD 16 ALLIGATOR WEED Class 2 Altemanthera philoxeroides * WEED OF NATIONAL SIGNIFICANCE * Alligator weed is an aquatic and terrestrial perennial herb. Large mats of interwoven stems develop from plants near stream banks and extend over the water surface. Its stems are green-brown, 10-70cm long and hollow with leaves that are dark green, opposite, obovate/narrow-elliptical 2-7cm long and 5-40mm wide. Roots produced at the nodes attach to soil and hang in water. Flowers are papery white, in a rounded compact spike, which is borne on a peduncle up to 3cm long rising from the leaf axils. Propagation occurs from stem fragments. Growth and regrowth commences in early spring with rapid growth during summer. As winter approaches emergent stems lose their leaves and, becoming prostrate, thicken the vegetative mat providing the base for the next season’s growth. EFFECTS ON THE ENVIRONMENT Alligator weed has been described as one of the world’s worst weeds, due to its vigorous growth habit and its ability to establish in both aquatic and terrestrial forms. The weed’s potential impacts on natural aquatic systems, the agricultural industry and urban drainage systems are enormous. Control is costly and requires ongoing treatment of infestations over a number of years. HABITAT It thrives in shallow drainage ditches, canals, rivers, lakes, reservoirs, swamps and wet or occasionally inundated pastures. CONTROL METHOD B 17 BITOU BUSH Class 3&4 Chrysanthemoides monilifera ssp rotundata * Weed of National Significance * Class 3: Tweed Shire. Class 4: Ballina, Byron, Lismore, Kyogle and Richmond Valley. A perennial sprawling shrub, 1-2m high. Leaves are alternate, bright green, usually smooth-edged or only slightly toothed and pointed at the tip, and practically hairless although young leaves have a cottony down. Flowers bright yellow with 1113 petals. The plant flowers intermittently all year, but main flowering is May-July. Berries hang in clusters; during ripening the green fleshy berries turn black. Seeds can be spread by birds, foxes, ants and rabbits. EFFECTS ON THE ENVIRONMENT An effective coloniser on sandy soils, it quickly dominates existing vegetation, forming almost pure stands in many areas to the detriment of native flora and fauna species. Dense stands impede traffic along paths and can alter natural fire regimes. Pest animals such as rabbits and foxes shelter in large stands and compete with native animals for resources. The dominant weed of coastal vegetation in NSW, it is listed as a key threatening process to biodiversity under the Threatened Species Conservation Act (1995). HABITAT Bitou bush has become an aggressive invader of Australian native coastal ecosystems and is not restricted by climate. It prefers sandy or medium textured soils and disturbed situations, particularly near the sea where it tolerates saline conditions. Recorded up to 10km inland, and occasionally occupies disturbed edges and roadsides close to the coast. CONTROL METHOD 18 B Broad-leaf Pepper Tree Schinus terebinthifolius Class 3 A broad-topped, fast growing, multi-stemmed shrub or small tree 1-6m tall. Plants are male or female and have leaves that are alternate, dark green, with 4-12 opposite leaflets and a terminal leaflet. Leaves often have a winged midrib. Flowers small and greenish yellow. Female flowers are followed by clusters of green berries that turn red when ripe 4-5mm wide and contain a single kidney-shaped seed. Leaves and berries have a pepper smell, especially when crushed, and may be toxic to humans and animals. EFFECTS ON THE ENVIRONMENT Invades native vegetation and disturbed areas to form dense stands and dominate understorey vegetation. Out-competes and replaces native grasses, ground covers and shrubs. Shade tolerant. Spreads rapidly on waterlogged or poorly drained soils, but will grow on drier land in higher rainfall areas. Contains toxic resins; related to the rhus tree and poison ivy. Some people suffer severe itching, lesions, rashes, reddening, swelling of the face, running sores and welts associated with the sap and flowering trees. Rarely eaten by livestock but reportedly toxic to some animals and birds. HABITAT Has potential to become a major environmental weed, particularly in damp coastal areas, along banks of waterways, mangroves, open forests and sand dunes. Grows in most circumstances, full sun or heavy shade, moist or dry conditions and thrives in disturbed or moist shady sites in riparian areas. Bats and many introduced birds eat the fruit as a staple food. CONTROL METHOD 19 Cats Claw Creeper Dolichandra unguis-cati Class 4 * WEED OF NATIONAL SIGNIFICANCE * A perennial climber, forming thick masses with woody stems. Stems extend 20+ metres with a three-pronged tendril 1015mm long with stiff tips that form hooks (like a cat’s claws) that aid in climbing. Large yellow trumpet flowers in clusters, flowering in spring. Roots are much branched and produce tubers at intervals along their length that can be up to 40cm long; each can produce multiple stems. Winged seeds 2-4cm long in a capsule 15-45cm long. EFFECTS ON THE ENVIRONMENT A serious weed that will smother large trees and shrubs. Especially troublesome along coastal and hinterland streams in Queensland and northern NSW. Due to the huge quantities of seed produced and reproducing vegetatively, it has potential to become a major weed, particularly in urban bushland along the east coast. HABITAT The plant communities in Australia most commonly invaded by Cats claw creeper are riparian zones and sub-tropical and tropical rainforests, including Littoral Rainforest and Riverflat Eucalypt Forest on coastal floodplains (Endangered Ecological Communities) that are found in Sutherland Shire. Most surviving remnants of these communities are small and particularly prone to weed invasion and degradation. Cats claw creeper grows in a range of soil types, but does not tolerate poorly drained soils. Plants are capable of surviving heavy frost but seed germination is reduced at low temperatures. CONTROL METHOD 20 CECROPIA Cecropia species Class 2 Common names include Trumpet tree and Snakewood. Native to tropical Central America, this plant can grow up to 25m. The plants can be distinguished by the large U-shaped leaf scars on the stems and the alternate, deeply-lobed leaves (similar to Pawpaw), 10-50cm wide. The surface is densely covered with white hairs, and petioles are usually 23-30cm long. Hollow stems, flowers and fruits are the key features. Yellow flowers are arranged in clusters of spikes, 12-18cm. Fruit is cylindrical, ovoid to oblong-ovoid, somewhat flattened, 3.33.7cm long, with soft sweet flesh around many small seeds. The plant matures in 3-5 years, and recorded to flower as early as 3.3 years of age. Flowers are wind-pollinated and produce about 18% viable seeds. EFFECTS ON THE ENVIRONMENT Cecropia plants produces millions of seeds per plant that can be dispersed by fruit bats and birds, giving it the potential to invade forest ecosystems, possibly causing serious and irreversible damage to our natural forests. HABITAT Cecropia species are among the most abundant weed species across large parts of Central America and are quick to colonise open, disturbed sites, as well as forests that have been damaged by cyclones.Naturalised specimens are most likely to be found in wetter habitats, such as riparian zones and dry rainforest remnants. CONTROL METHOD 21 CHINESE CELTIS Class 4 Celtis sinensis A semi-deciduous tree or tall spreading shrub to 20m high with smooth grey bark. Chinese celtis has oval-shaped leaves that are 4.5-9cm long with a pointed tip and toothed margins along the upper half with sparse hairs along the midvein. Cream flowers develop in early summer producing thousands of round green fruits 7-8mm that turn orange in late summer/ early autumn. EFFECTS ON THE ENVIRONMENT Chinese celtis produces fruit and flowers prolifically. This ensures that the dispersal is carried out over large distances, with the assistance of feeding birds, water and other animals. Chinese celtis plants will grow in dense colonies, infesting and overpowering native bushland. The thick canopy of the plant shades native plants from sunlight and the plants themselves vigorously compete with native plants for water and nutrients in the surrounding area. The seeds also have the ability to germinate under heavy shade. HABITAT Chinese celtis has become a major environmental weed, particularly widespread in damp coastal areas, along banks of waterways, near rainforest and on clay soils in Western Sydney. It grows in most circumstances, full sun or heavy shade, moist or dry conditions and thrives in disturbed or moist shady sites on riverbanks. Bats and many introduced birds eat the fruit as a staple food. CONTROL METHOD Photo: Sutherland Shire Council 22 CHINESE TALLOW TREE Triadica sebifera Class 3 Chinese tallow is native to south-eastern Asia, mainly China, and was introduced as an ornamental tree in streetscapes and gardens. It is spread by humans through plantings, by birds, and by water carrying the floating seeds. It is easily recognised by its alternate heart-shaped leaves that turn red in autumn before falling in winter. Its fruits split open to reveal white-coated seeds that are sometimes likened to popcorn, hence its other common name: Popcorn tree. It is a medium to large tree that can reach 15-20m high. Flowers between late spring and early summer, usually from around November to February. EFFECTS ON THE ENVIRONMENT Chinese tallow produces up to 100,000 seeds per tree per year with long seed dormancy. Shade, sun, drought and flood tolerant, it can quickly establish thickets and displace other vegetation and restrict access to waterways and wetlands. This weed is invasive and alters nutrient cycles, quickly forming dense monocultures displacing native vegetation. HABITAT While the Chinese tallow appears to favour wetter areas such as swamps, they can grow in drier conditions and have been planted as an ornamental tree in streets and gardens. Infestations can be found throughout the North Coast of NSW, with heavier infestations in the Casino area, and is also present in other areas of NSW, Victoria and Queensland. CONTROL METHOD 23 cHINESE vIOLET Class 1 Asystasia gangetica subspecies micrantha Chinese violet is native to India, the Malay Peninsula and Africa. It is a major weed overseas, notably in Malaysia, Indonesia and the Pacific islands, where it infests crops such as rubber and coffee, but particularly palm oil plantations. The subspecies has become invasive in Australia, with its first recording as naturalised made in NSW, north of Newcastle, in 1999. It is now known to occur in a number of nearby locations and was found at South West Rocks near Kempsey on the NSW Mid North Coast in 2009. Chinese violet grows in mats similar to Wandering dew. On its own it will grow to 1m high or over, shrubs up to 3m tall. Leaves and stems have scattered hairs and are paler below. Flowers 20–25mm long, white outside and inside with some purple blotches in two parallel lines inside. The fruit is 3031mm long, guitar shaped (with neck of guitar attached to stem) and containing four flattened seeds held in place by conspicuous hooks. Plants spread by seed and/or rhizomes. The seeds are dispersed explosively from drying capsules, but long distance dispersal is generally by man. Stems root at each node. EFFECTS ON THE ENVIRONMENT It can smother all vegetation in the herbaceous layer. HABITAT This weed grows in tropical and subtropical areas and threatens biodiversity in these areas. Notifiable weed. Call Council for assistance. Photo: J Hosking 24 Photo: Graham Pritchard Eurasion water milfoil Myriophyllum spicatum Class 1 Eurasian water milfoil is native to Europe, Asia and northern Africa. This species has not been recorded as present in NSW or elsewhere in Australia. It spreads mostly via plant fragments that are spread over long distances by water currents, and are mainly dispersed between water bodies by boating and fishing activities. A submerged perennial plant with stems that are rooted at the base and grow towards the surface, it can grow in water from 0.5 to 10m deep, but most commonly at depths up to 3m. The olive-green leaves are submerged and feather-like. They grow in whorls of four around the stem with an average of 12 pairs of divisions. Flowers are small and pinkish with four petals, occurring in whorls of four around the stem. EFFECTS ON THE ENVIRONMENT Eurasian water milfoil is a highly aggressive aquatic weed that can spread rapidly. It forms a dense stand that shades out and replaces all other aquatic plants, seriously impacting on native plant and animal life. Dense mats also interfere with other uses of water bodies, such as recreation and irrigation. HABITAT Eurasian water milfoil prefers lakes, ponds, shallow reservoirs and slow moving water, but will also grow in fast moving water. It can tolerate and thrive in a range of temperatures and water conditions, including low levels of salinity. Notifiable weed. Call Council for assistance. 25 GIANT DEVILS FIG Class 3 Solanum chrysotrichum Originating in Central America and introduced to the Far North Coast of NSW around 35 years ago, Giant devils fig has since been spread by birds and bats to become a serious weed threat on the North Coast. Giant devils fig is an erect perennial shrub up to 4m high. Large leaves with 7-13 lobes divide halfway up. The white star-shaped flowers have five petals and are hairy on the outer surface. Flowering is autumn to spring. The downward-facing thorns on the trunk are present from when the plant is very young, which makes hand pulling dangerous. It has a small round green seed similar to that of a Wild tobacco, which turns yellow when ripe. EFFECTS ON THE ENVIRONMENT Naturalising in disturbed habitats, creek banks, forests and riparian areas, Giant devils fig is rapidly becoming a serious threat to native vegetation and is suspected of poisoning livestock. Its sharp thorns can inflict injuries on both animals and people. HABITAT A weed of watercourses (i.e. riparian areas), closed forests, forest margins, roadsides, parks, gardens, disturbed sites and waste areas. CONTROL METHOD 26 GREEN CESTRUM Cestrum parqui Class 3 Green cestrum is a medium-sized perennial shrub growing to 2-3m high. Its shiny green leaves are 20-30mm wide and 80-100mm long. They have smooth edges, are pointed at each end and are arranged alternatively along the branch. The leaves have a foul smell when crushed. The flowers are greenish yellow and common throughout most of the year, but main flowering is from late spring to autumn. The flowers occur in clusters at the end of branches and individual flowers are 20-25mm long, and are trumpet in shape, opening into five, six or seven small triangular lobes. Clusters of shiny black egg-shaped berries 7-10mm long are produced during summer and autumn. EFFECTS ON THE ENVIRONMENT Green cestrum is found in urban bushland growing in small to medium size thickets, with larger infestations on alluvial soils along streams. These infestations are usually dominant and will exclude all other plants, including natives. The plant is known to be toxic to livestock and humans. Death from eating small quantities of leaves, twigs or fruit is usually rapid and painful. HABITAT Green cestrum was previously found in large numbers around horse stables and it has been a common garden plant. Cestrum is now most commonly found in moist drainage lines and bushland edges. CONTROL METHOD 27 GROUNDSEL BUSH Baccharis halimifolia Class 3 Groundsel bush is a densely-branched shrub, usually 1.5-3m high. Leaves are dull or pale green, waxy to touch, alternate, 2.5-5cm long, 1-2.5cm wide, wedge-shaped and prominentlytoothed. The male trees have cream flowers that occur in globular heads. Female trees have white flowers that grow in head clusters at the ends of branches. Mature bushes have a deep branching taproot with numerous fibrous lateral roots. It was first introduced into Australia as an ornamental plant, and by 1900 had become naturalised in Queensland. Present in the Tweed, Richmond and Clarence catchments in Northern NSW since the mid 1960s, it has gradually spread southwards along the coastal fringe to the Taree area. It is likely that Groundsel bush will spread further in Australia. EFFECTS ON THE ENVIRONMENT Groundsel bush is both an environmental and a forestry weed. Thick stands can inhibit the movement of stock and reduce the productivity and carrying capacity of agricultural land. Each female plant can produce more than 1.5 million seeds annually. Under windy conditions during flowering, seed can be transported over long distances. HABITAT Groundsel bush is found in humid warm-temperate to subtropical regions. It is mostly found in disturbed areas such as coastal swamps, degraded pastures and forests where the understorey has been removed. CONTROL METHOD 28 HONEY LOCUST Gleditsia triacanthos Class 3 A deciduous, leguminous tree growing to 25m tall. Leaves are dark green, about 10cm long with around 20 opposite paired leaflets. In spring it produces a creamy-yellow flower that develops into a 20-30cm long flat brown/black pod; each pod can contain up to 30 seeds. The plant reproduces prolifically, and stockes relish the legume’s seed pods. The trunk and limbs of the Honey locust tree are covered in very sharp needle-like spines that can grow to over 50mm in length. EFFECTS ON THE ENVIRONMENT Due to the enormous quantities of seed produced, drought tolerance, fast growth and freedom of disease and pests, Honey locust has the potential to become a major weed, particularly in urban bushland and disturbed areas. Honey locust smothers desirable vegetation, which reduces pasture stocking rates and native regeneration. It forms dense thickets that can block access by humans and stock, but harbour feral animals such as rabbits, foxes and deer. When dense, these weeds increase the risk of bushfire through increased fuel load. The seed is spread by animals eating pods and passing seed in dung, water transporting the floating pods, and humans planting it as an ornamental plant or for fodder. HABITAT Honey locust often becomes dense on river banks, hillsides, forest margins, roadsides and other disturbed areas. It will also invade pastures and native vegetation. It is able to grow on a wide range of soil types and climates. CONTROL METHOD 29 HORSETAIL Equisetum species Class 1 Horsetails are non-woody herbaceous plants, native to the northern hemisphere, including Europe, Northern America and Asia. They are now naturalised in New Zealand, Madagascar and parts of South America. They have been grown and sold as ornamental plants in Australia, and in the past have been sold at local North Coast markets. Plants usually spread by rhizomes that produce new stems (shoots) throughout the growing season from spring to autumn. Small parts of the rhizomes from mature plants can break off and grow into new plants. Horsetails also produce spores that require prolonged periods of moist conditions to germinate successfully. EFFECTS ON THE ENVIRONMENT Highly invasive primitive plants, Horsetail is the common name used to refer to 30 species in the Equisetum genus, 12 of which are considered weeds around the world. Common horsetail (Equisetum arvense) and Scouring rush horsetail (Equisetum hyemale) are of most concern in Australia. In high densities they also reduce crop yields by producing inhibitory substances that depress the growth of neighbouring plants. All except the common Horsetail are toxic to livestock. HABITAT Horsetails are mostly found in wet areas such as the banks and edges of swamps, rivers and lakes. They tolerate low nutrient levels and grow in many soil types, usually in damp conditions in open woodlands, pastures, stream banks, embankments, arable land and roadsides. Notifiable weed. Call Council for assistance. Photo: B Trounce 30 HYMENACHNE Hymenachne amplexicaulis and hybrids Class 1 * WEED OF NATIONAL SIGNIFICANCE * Hymenachne is considered one of Australia’s worst weeds. Native to the tropics of South and Central America, it is a serious weed in Australia, the West Indies, Indonesia, the Florida wetlands of USA and Suriname. Small infestations have been found on the North Coast. An erect grass that can grow in water up to 2m deep, it prefers swampy situations such as river banks and seasonally flooded areas. Submerged stems quickly produce roots from nodes. A distinctive characteristic is the base of the leaf blade that clasps around the stem. The plant flowers in summer and autumn. In NSW, it only reproduces by broken stem fragments and stolons. Broken fragments of plant can be carried to new locations by floodwater and will take root in moist soil. It thrives in nutrient-rich water. Flood waters also transport fragments into waterways, irrigation storage facilities, sugar cane crops and natural wetlands. EFFECTS ON THE ENVIRONMENT It forms dense infestations, displaces native plant species, reduces biodiversity and threatens native wetland habitat. HABITAT Originally introduced to Queensland and the Northern Territory as a ponded pasture species, it has invaded freshwater wetlands, floodplains and river banks. Notifiable weed. Call Council for assistance. 31 KIDNEY LEAF MUD PLANTAIN Heteranthera reniformis Class 1 Kidney leaf mud plantain is a sprawling annual or perennial aquatic plant. The leaves are kidney-shaped, bright green and glossy, up to 5cm wide and arranged alternately along the stem. They are attached to a stalk 2-13cm long and are either floating or emerging above the water. It was introduced to Australia as an ornamental pond plant and has been actively promoted on a number of Australian websites. The main method of dispersal is through vegetative reproduction. Any stem fragment containing one or more nodes is capable of producing a new plant. Plant fragments can be washed downstream or moved to a new location in mud stuck to animals or vehicles. The plant is 20-50cm tall and grows in fresh water less than 15cm deep and on damp soil at the water’s edge. EFFECTS ON THE ENVIRONMENT It is able to form dense mats and colonise open shallow water, such as disturbed wetlands and flooded rice production. Such characteristics make this weed a potential threat to native vegetation and freshwater aquatic habitats. HABITAT Kidney leaf mud plantain will quickly colonise open sunny areas, but does not grow well in shaded areas or amongst taller growing vegetation such as sedges and tall grasses. It is most commonly found along roadside ditches, streams, ponds, drains, freshwater tidal mudflats and riverbeds. Notifiable weed. Call Council for assistance. 32 KOSTERS CURSE / CLIDEMIA Clidemia hirta Class 1 Kosters curse is a bushy perennial shrub native to tropical America. Covered in reddish-brown bristly hairs it generally grows to about 2m tall. Leaves are hairy and occur in opposite pairs along the stem. The upper surfaces are a bright, shiny green, and the undersides are paler. Five prominent veins run down the length of the leaf, with many obvious cross veins occurring between. Clusters of 6-20 small flowers with five white or pinkish petals. Flowers occur all year, except in dry conditions. Each flower produces a reddish purple berry that is hairy and turns dark purple when mature. It has the potential to spread rapidly over many areas of Australia where conditions are suitable, including the Northern Territory, Northern NSW, and much of northeast Queensland. In 2001, an infestation was found near Julatten, north Queensland. EFFECTS ON THE ENVIRONMENT Kosters curse is a highly invasive shrub, forming dense thickets that can smother plantations, pastures and native vegetation. It is a serious pest in at least 16 countries, including Hawaii, Fiji and Indonesia. Potential to cause millions of dollars damage to primary production, irreversible damage to sensitive habitats and native plant communities. HABITAT Kosters curse prefers humid tropical lowlands and waterways, ideally with an annual rainfall over 1,200mm, and grows in both shaded areas and full sunlight. Notifiable weed. Call Council for assistance. 33 KUDZU Pueraria lobata Class 3 Kudzu is a vine native to China, Japan, south-eastern Asia, Malesia and some Pacific Islands. A major pest in Japan and the United States, it has been present in Queensland since around 1941. Presently there are numerous small infestations scattered along the east coast of Queensland and northeast NSW. Kudzu is in the genus Pueraria, in the pea family Fabaceae, subfamily Faboideae. They are climbing, coiling, and trailing perennial vines that flower in summer. On supporting vegetation they can grow to 18m high. The plant produces tubers, stems with appressed to spreading brown hairs, and stipules 0.8-1.6cm long. Leaflets are lobed or not lobed, and the lower surface paler than the upper surface. Seeds are 3.5-4mm long. Kudzu mainly spreads vegetatively, which explains why it does not spread rapidly. If however it was sold to be planted widely, it has the potential to become a serious problem. EFFECTS ON THE ENVIRONMENT Plants smother supporting vegetation and the dense canopy excludes light from lower plants. Tubers are edible and Kudzu was grown as a root crop in Asia where its common name is Japanese arrowroot. HABITAT It is a major weed in south-central and south-eastern USA where it was introduced as an ornamental, and at a later stage promoted for pasture and soil conservation. CONTROL METHOD 34 MICONIA Miconia species Class 1 Miconia, also known as Velvet tree, is native to South America and can be found from Mexico to Brazil. Miconia was introduced to Tahiti in 1937 and now grows on 70% of the island, where it is described as the ‘green cancer’. In Hawaii it is described as the ‘purple plague’. It was introduced to Australia in1963 as a garden ornamental. Naturalised populations are now known to occur in Far North Queensland. Seeds can remain viable for over five years, and though they usually germinate in the sun, they can grow under a canopy. Miconia grows as a small tree, up to 15m tall. Leaves are commonly 60-70cm long, dark green with three prominent veins on the upper surface, and distinctly purple-blue undersides. Flowers are white to pink in colour and the 1cm diameter fruit is dark purple. EFFECTS ON THE ENVIRONMENT It is an unusually aggressive invader of moist habitats, and a potentially devastating weed of Australian rainforests. It has the ability to thrive in heavy shade and sunlight, and can cause irreversible damage by forming dense thickets in the understorey and completely replacing the native vegetation. Half of Tahiti’s native plants are considered to be directly endangered due to Miconia. HABITAT Miconia is a rainforest tree, and the climate throughout much of northern and eastern Australia is ideal for the plant. CONTROL METHOD 35 MIKANIA vine Mikania micrantha Class 1 Mikania is native to Central and South America, from Mexico to Argentina and the Caribbean region. It is a major weed of agriculture in the tropical areas of South and Southeast Asia, including China and Malaysia. In Australia the first infestations were discovered in Far North Queensland in 1998 at Ingham and Bingil Bay near Tully. Mikania is not known to be present in NSW. It has a potential distribution that covers the coastal regions of Northern Territory, northern Western Australia, Queensland and Northern NSW. Mikania is a rapidly-growing multi-stemmed vine that prefers to climb over already established plants or structures. EFFECTS ON THE ENVIRONMENT Mikania is a creeping or twining perennial vine capable of growing to 20m high on supporting vegetation. It can smother native vegetation, plantation crops, forests and infrastructure, and is known as ‘mile-a-minute’ due to its rapid growth rate. It is invasive under tree crops and in the understorey of forests. It is able to grow up through the canopy of a forest. Mikania produces toxins that, when released into the soil, reduce the growth of other plants such as native vegetation, crops and plantations. HABITAT Mikania thrives in open, sunny, disturbed areas, but will also tolerate partial shade. It prefers warm and humid tropical climates with rich damp soils and an annual rainfall over 1,000mm. Notifiable weed. Call Council for assistance. Photo: Navaneeth Krishnan 36 mysore thorn Caesalpinia decapetala Class 3 Mysore thorn is native to Japan, China, India and Malaysia. It is present in many countries around the world and is an invasive weed in New Zealand, the Dominican Republic, South Africa and Hawaii. In Northern NSW there are many localised infestations. Small, localised infestations are also present along the central coast of NSW. Mysore thorn is a large evergreen shrub growing 2-4m high, or up to 20m high when climbing over supporting vegetation. It reproduces by seed, which may stay viable in the soil for up to 10 years. The seed is mainly dispersed by animals that feed on the fruit, such as rodents, birds and cattle. Seed pods float on water, spreading seeds downstream to new locations. The branches produce new roots when they come into contact with the ground. Plants will re-shoot vigorously when cut. Branches are covered by hooked thorns, and pale yellow flowers are produced during winter and spring. EFFECT ON THE ENVIRONMENT Originally planted in gardens as a hedge plant, it is now an environmental weed. It can affect the biodiversity of native bushland areas by out-competing and smothering native species. HABITAT Mysore thorn prefers humid coastal conditions in sub-tropical to tropical climates. It will often grow in disturbed areas, roadsides, pastures, creek banks, native grasslands and along the edges of bushlands and forests. CONTROL METHOD 37 Paper Mulberry Broussonetia papyrifera Class 2 A fast-growing, smooth bark, single-stemmed shrub or small tree 15m tall. The twigs are hairy and reddish-brown. Bark is tan and smooth to moderately furrowed with viable leaves of 8-20cm. Male flowers are yellowish-white and arranged in an elongate inflorescence (up to 8cm long). Female flowers take the form of a round inflorescence in spring that forms red to orange/yellow fruits (green when immature), 1-4cm in diameter, in summer. EFFECT ON THE ENVIRONMENT Invades and eliminates native vegetation and disturbed areas to form dense stands and dominate understorey vegetation. Out-competes and replaces native grasses, ground covers and shrubs. Shade tolerant. Spreads rapidly in well drained soils with an annual rainfall over 1,000mm. When roots or stems are damaged or cut, suckering occurs giving the plant the ability to increase size and density. It also triggers reactions in people who suffer allergies. HABITAT Has the potential to become a major environmental weed, particularly in riparian areas, urban bushland, closed forests, forestry plantations and forest margins in tropical, sub-tropical and temperate areas. Grows in most circumstances, full sun or heavy shade and thrives in disturbed or moist shady sites. Bats and many introduced birds eat the fruit and may disperse it into native ecosystems. Will also invade disturbed areas especially industrial land, post-fire areas and transport corridors (road and rail). CONTROL METHOD 38 Parthenium weed Class 1 Parthenium hysterophorus * WEED OF NATIONAL SIGNIFICANCE * Parthenium weed is annual, native to the Caribbean region. It is thought to have been introduced to Australia from the USA on machinery during World War II and as a contaminant of imported pasture seed during the 1950s. Although endemic to central Queensland and spreading into southern Queensland, NSW continues to be free from established populations of Parthenium weed. Outbreaks on private property occur in NSW but are not common. The upper half of the main stem becomes highly branched at flowering, producing creamy-white flowers at the tips of the stems. The deeply-lobed leaves are alternately branched on the stems, pale green and covered with soft, fine hair. Prior to late-flowering, the plant can be easily mistaken for Bishops weed (Ammi majus) and Hemlock (Conium maculatum). After it has set seed and becomes woody it can then be mistaken for Fleabane (Conyza spp.). EFFECTS ON THE ENVIRONMENT The weed adversely affects human and animal health and can cause respiratory problems, severe dermatitis, tainted meat and tainted milk. Never touch the plant with bare hands as severe allergic reactions can occur. HABITAT Conditions for the growth of Parthenium weed are ideal in most areas of NSW, with the exception of very arid or wet areas. Once established, plants will survive both droughts and frosts. Notifiable weed. Call Council for assistance. Photo: Phil Blackmore 39 pond apple Amnona glabra Class 1 * WEED OF NATIONAL SIGNIFICANCE * Pond apple is a native of North, Central and South America and West Africa and thrives in areas that are moist and sunlit. Pond apple can be confused with native mangroves as superficially they look similar and are often found growing together. Pond apple plants are usually single-stemmed with grey bark. When seedlings germinate together, they can form multiple-stemmed plants that can fuse together and appear single-stemmed. EFFECTS ON THE ENVIRONMENT Pond apple is a very hardy, semi-deciduous woody tree that can form extremely dense thickets, maturing into dark forests. This aggressive invader usually grows to a height of 3-6m, but can grow as tall as 15m. It was introduced to Australia as a salt- and water-tolerant grafting stock for the closely related, commercially produced, Custard apple (Annona reticulata). It is still used as a rootstock for Custard apple in Northern Queensland. Pond apple is regarded as one of the worst weeds in Australia because of its invasiveness, potential for spread, and economic and environmental impacts. HABITAT Pond apple can grow in the same environments as native mangroves due to its ability to tolerate flooded areas and salt water. It is found in a wide range of disturbed and undisturbed wetlands and rainforests, including streams, riverbanks, wetlands, sedgelands, mangrove communities and high tide zones on beaches. Notifiable weed. Call Council for assistance. 40 SENEGAL TEA PLANT Gymnocoronis Spilanthoides Class 1 Senegal tea plant has stems that are ribbed, pale green and erect, becoming prostrate with age. Hollow between the nodes and buoyant, able to form tangled floating mats. Stems branch at nodes and are 1-1.5m long and 5-20mm diameter. Fine, fibrous roots form at stem nodes. White, pom-pom-like flowers 1.5-2cm diameter occur in groups at ends of stems. Flowering starts in late spring/early summer and continues until temperatures fall. Flowers have a strong fragrance. Seeds are yellow-brown, 5mm diameter and ribbed. Reproduces by plant fragments and seed; fragments develop roots and new stems when they come into contact with soil. Seeds can be moved in faster flowing water or in mud on vehicles or animals. Plant fragments move in flowing water/flood waters. EFFECT ON THE ENVIRONMENT An extremely hardy plant with a growth rate exceeding 15cm a week in fertile situations. Long branching stems produce a tangled web of vegetative material that, growing out from the bank, quickly covers the water surface. It impedes water flow, navigation and recreation. HABITAT Senegal tea prefers tropical, sub-tropical and warm‑temperate regions, and will grow in damp floodplain soils, on the margins of creeks/dams, in wetlands and in still/slow-flowing fresh water. Plants can grow when fully submerged, but growth is slower and plants are smaller. In some infestations plants have been found growing on the floodplain up to 150m from the water body. Notifiable weed. Call Council for assistance. 41 siam weed Chromolaena odorata Class 1 Siam weed is recognised as one of the world’s worst tropical weeds. It is a native of Central America and was first identified in Australia in 1994, with infestations along the Tully River and near Mission Beach, in North Queensland. It was first reported in Africa in the 1940s. Today it is a major weed in Nigeria, Ghana, Cameroon, Zaire and South Africa. Siam weed is considered one of the world’s worst tropical weeds due to its quick invasion and establishment. It invades and outcompetes pastures, crops and native vegetation. It is known to grow up to 20m high as a climbing plant. Its leaves are almost triangular. White to pale-lilac flowers occur in flattopped clusters during winter. They also contain fine barbs, which means they readily stick to clothing, equipment and animals. EFFECT ON THE ENVIRONMENT Siam weed is on the Alert List for Environmental Weeds, a list of 28 non-native plants that threaten biodiversity and cause other environmental damage. It has the potential to seriously degrade Australia’s ecosystems. The plant is toxic to livestock, killing more than 3,000 cattle annually in the Philippines. The toxin also causes abortions in cattle and is suspected of being a fish poison. It can also cause allergic reactions. HABITAT Siam weed is now a serious weed in Mauritius, India, Sri Lanka, south-east Asia, China, the Philippines and Guam. Notifiable weed. Contact Council for assistance. Photo: J Bocking 42 Photo: J Bocking Tropical soda apple Solanum viarum Class 1 An upright, branching, perennial shrub growing up to 2m. Broad-based, straight, cream-coloured prickles to 12mm long scattered on most plant parts. Leaves 10-20cm long, 6-15cm wide, densely covered in short hairs; mid-veins and primary lateral-veins cream-coloured. Flowers white with five petals 2-4mm long in clusters of three to six, developing into yellow golf‑ball-size fruit containing up to 45,000 seeds. EFFECT ON THE ENVIRONMENT Invades and eliminates native vegetation and disturbed areas; forms dense stands, dominating understorey vegetation. Outcompetes and replaces native grasses, ground covers and shrubs. Shade tolerant. Spreads rapidly on waterlogged or poorly drained soils but will grow on drier land in higher rainfall areas. Foliage unpalatable to livestock (reducing carrying capacities). Prickles restrict grazing by native animals and livestock; thickets can prevent animals’ access to shade and water. A host for many diseases and pests of cultivated crops. Contains solasodine (poisonous to humans). HABITAT Has the potential to become a major environmental weed, particularly in damp coastal areas, along banks of waterways, mangroves, open forests and moist gullies. Grows in most circumstances, full sun or shade, moist or dry conditions. Thrives in disturbed or moist shady sites in riparian areas; potential to spread in coastal regions of NSW and Queensland and inland through cattle movements. Seed can be spread by feral animals and birds feeding on fruit; and via water and contaminated produce, soil and equipment. Notifiable weed. Contact Council for assistance. 43 water lettuce Pistia stratiotes Class 1 Water lettuce is native to Asia, Africa and equatorial America. There is debate about whether the Northern Territory, where it was collected in 1946, forms part of its native range. It has since spread to Queensland, NSW and Western Australia. Water lettuce is a free-floating plant that looks like an open head of lettuce. Pale green leaves are ribbed, wedge-shaped and form a rosette. They are spongy to touch and have a velvety appearance due to the small thick hairs that cover them. Water lettuce is a perennial plant that reproduces vegetatively and from seed. Pieces can be spread by boats or fishing equipment moving it from an infested to a clean water body. EFFECT ON THE ENVIRONMENT Under favourable conditions, Water lettuce will produce abundant growth, expand rapidly and form obstructive mats. These large, dense floating mats can have negative impacts on native aquatic plants and animals. They can also interfere with irrigation, boating and water sport activities. Thick mats of Water lettuce are also known to harbour disease-causing mosquitoes. HABITAT It is thought to have been introduced into NSW rivers and dams via eel traps from Queensland, and as an aquarium plant and water garden specimen sold in nurseries. Rivers, wetlands, lakes, reservoirs and slow-moving streams are most at risk from this weed, especially in the subtropical parts of the state. Notifiable weed. Contact Council for assistance. 44 white blackberry / mysore raspberry Class 3 Rubus niveus Also known as White blackberry or Hill raspberry, Mysore raspberry is originally from India and South-East Asia. It forms dense, impenetrable thickets and has become invasive in some areas where it has been introduced, including Hawaii and the Galapagos Islands. Mysore raspberry is a large scrambling shrub, 3-4.5m high, with sharp, hooked thorns. Its leaves are hairy and made up of from 5-9 leaflets, 2.5-6cm long, with toothed edges. The upper side is dark green while the underside is white. Pink or mauve flowers, 10-15mm in diameter, occur in dense clusters. Typical raspberry fruit, 1015mm in diameter, change from red to purple-black as they ripen. They are spread by birds, rodents and other animals. They contain very large numbers of seeds, which can remain viable for up to two years. Very dense seed banks can accumulate in the soil. EFFECT ON THE ENVIRONMENT Mysore raspberry can form dense thickets that displace native plants and prevent them from regenerating. It can also invade farmland. HABITAT Mysore raspberry has become invasive in moist forest areas in other countries. It tolerates a wide range of climatic conditions. CONTROL METHOD Photo: Forest & Kim Starr 45 witchweed Striga species except native sp. and Striga parviflora Class 1 Witchweeds are parasitic herbs that grow on the roots of host plants. All Striga species, except for the native Striga parviflora, are Prohibited Weeds in NSW. Witchweeds are native to tropical Africa, India, the Middle East and China. They infest an estimated two-thirds of all cropping in Africa. In July 2013, Striga asiatica was found on a small number of properties near Mackay in Queensland. Witchweeds are not known to occur in NSW. Witchweeds are dependent on a host plant, only germinating when exposed to certain chemicals that host plants exude. Seeds are spread short distances by wind, and further by water and soil attached to animals, machinery, tools, footwear and clothing. Contaminated crop seed is the most likely way for Witchweeds to be introduced into an area. The presence of Witchweed may be indicated by symptoms in the host plant, which are similar to severe drought stress, nutrient deficiency and vascular disease. EFFECT ON THE ENVIRONMENT Worldwide, at least 11 species of Witchweed are known to attack crops. They are serious weeds of maize, millet, rice, sugarcane, sorghum and legume crops. Crop losses can be as high as 100%. Parasitic weeds like Witchweed are among the most destructive and difficult-to-control weeds in agriculture. HABITAT Witchweed prefers intensive agriculture where frequent crops, monocultures and fertilisers encourage growth and seed production. Notifiable weed. Contact Council for assistance. Photo: Qld government 46 Photo: Bart Wursten yellow bells Tecoma stans Class 3 Yellow bells is a native of tropical America. It is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in subtropical and tropical areas of the world. It was introduced into Australia as an ornamental plant and was first recorded as naturalised in 1973 near Roma in Queensland. It has also become naturalised in southern Asia, Argentina, Brazil, South Africa and some oceanic islands. Isolated infestations occur in coastal and floodplain areas on the NSW North Coast. Yellow bells primarily reproduces from seed. These are primarily wind-borne, but are also spread by water and dumping garden waste. It is a large shrub or much-branched small tree 3-8m tall, rarely to 10m tall. Flowers are bright yellow, seeds are paper, winged and to about 2.2cm long. EFFECT ON THE ENVIRONMENT Yellow bells invades riparian areas, edges of rainforest and eucalypt forest, open woodlands, grasslands, waste areas, sand dunes, agricultural land and other disturbed areas. Although palatable to stock, it reduces feed quality, restricts access for stock and machinery and competes with orchard plantings. It has the potential to be a serious weed of much of tropical and subtropical Australia. HABITAT It is grows in riparian areas, edges of rainforest and eucalypt forest, open woodlands, grasslands, waste areas, sand dunes, agricultural land and other disturbed areas. CONTROL METHOD 47 HOW YOU CAN HELP How you CAN help • Visit the Rous County Council website (www.rous.nsw.gov.au - then select Weed biosecurity - weed information - noxious-weeds) for a list of local noxious weeds. • Visit the NSW Department of Primary Industries website (www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/agriculture/pests-weeds/ weeds) for more information and the most current noxious weed declarations for the council area. • When planting in your garden use local native species or non-invasive species. • Do not throw garden waste into bushland. Use compost bins or council’s greenwaste bins. • Control noxious and environmental weeds in accordance with required control measures. oTHER RESOURCES Local Land Services Weeds Australia The Weed Society of NSW Council of Australian Weed Societies (CAWS) Noxious Weeds Act 1993 Botanic Gardens Trust 48 Identify a weed For assistance in identifying weeds in the Council area, please contact Rous County Council on 6623 3847. Above: Alligator weed, Eltham swamp. Thank you to Sutherland Shire Council for their assistance in producing this booklet. Control methods and symbols shown throughout this section courtesy of Sydney Weeds (sydneyweeds.org.au). 49 OUR CONTACT DETAILS Hymenachne seed heads. Rous County Council - Weed biosecurity Level 4, 218-232 Molesworth Street, Lismore NSW 2480 PO Box 230, Lismore NSW 2480 T: (02) 6623 3800 F: (02) 6622 1181 [email protected] www.rous.nsw.gov.au