of blue mountains bushland...blue mountains townships and villages are perched on ridges above some...

Weeds of Blue Mountains Bushland— a guide to identification and control

Distribution of weedsThe area west of sydney known as the Blue Mountains contains a wide variety of ecosystems with a great diversity of flora and fauna. It encompasses more than one climatic zone and soil type, and rainfall also varies. so does the distribution of native plants and weeds.

Glossarycrown the point where stems join roots; a method for removing certain plants

ecosystem a community of living organisms interacting with each other and the environment

layer a plant growing roots from the point at which stems touch the ground

local provenance locally occurring plants grown from locally collected seed

rhizome an underground stem which grows horizontally producing roots and shoots

sucker a plant sending up new shoots from the roots

AcknowledgementsThis edition has been compiled by BMCC staff. It is based on the concept and content developed by Barbara harley who was the author of the four previous editions of Weeds of Blue Mountains Bushland. a great deal of Barbara’s content is retained in this edition and we acknowledge the help and advice given to Barbara by former BMCC Bushcare Team leaders Chris dewhurst and lyndal sullivan, and by John Pennlington, lachlan Garland, Clive hayward Barker and Kathy Chapman.

Buying local native plants

local provenance native plants are adapted to local conditions and don’t become weedy. You can buy local bushland plants from the Blue Mountains Wildplant Rescue service and the Blue Mountains Conservation society nurseries. ask for plants from your area. Contact details on back page.

Publication details Copyright remains with BMCC. Published by BMCC. Contact BMCC for terms of use of this material.

Abbreviations BMCC Blue Mountains

City Council

LGA local Government area

EPA nsW Environment Protection authority

NPWS national Parks and Wildlife service

BMCS Blue Mountains Conservation society

WPR Blue Mountains Wildplant Rescue service

sp., spp. species (singular and plural)

cvs. cultivars

3

The value of our bushland. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

How weeds invade bushland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Woody weedsafrican Olive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Bamboo and arundo . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Boneseed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Box Elder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Broom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Butterfly Bush . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Cherry laurel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

English holly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Evergreen dogwood . . . . . . . . . . 16

Gorse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Herbaceous weeds and groundcovers agapanthus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

asparagus Fern, Ming Fern & Bridal Creeper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Crofton Weed & Mist Flower . . . 29

Blue Periwinkle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Climbers and scramblers Blackberry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Cat’s Claw Creeper . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Ivy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Japanese honeysuckle . . . . . . . . 39

Controlling weeds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Other local bush invaders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Tree preservation order weed exemptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Wildlife-friendly gardens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Bringing back the bush . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

“Weeds are everyone’s responsibility” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Contacts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . back cover

Contents

FROnT COvER: native juvenile Crimson Rosella feeding on privet (a weed tree). When weed trees are left to flourish, birds feed on their berries and spread seeds via their droppings into our local bushland. Photo: akos lumnitzer.

Green Cestrum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

himalayan honeysuckle . . . . . . . 19

lantana . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Privet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Pussy Willow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

spanish heath . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Tutsan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Wattle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Wild Black Cherry . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Montbretia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Red hot Poker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

seaside daisy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Trad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Zebra Grass & Miscanthus . . . . . 35

Balloon vine & Madeira vine . . . 40

Moth vine & Morning Glory . . . 41

White jasmine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

4

The value of our bushlandThose of us who live in the Blue Mountains, in the ‘City within a World Heritage Area’, are highly privileged: almost all of us live within sight of the bush; all of us are bushland neighbours.

The values of our bushland are many and substantial:

• Our bushland is our naTuRal hERITaGE. It is a large part of what makes the Blue Mountains unique. It determines the visual identity of the landscape. Our bushland helps us to define our place on earth.

• Our bushland has high aEsThETIC valuE, dividing our urban spaces with its characteristic greenness and the familiar shapes of gum trees. Our bushland reduces noise, air and visual pollution, creates a feeling of peace and space, and enhances the residential life of our townships and villages.

• Our bushland aids our health by providing a means of RElIEF FROM EvERYdaY sTREss. Our bushland offers an environment which restores our sense of wellbeing, a place where physical and mental balance can be achieved.

• Our bushland provides a place for a variety of RECREaTIOnal aCTIvITIEs, and it is also an invaluable resource for EduCaTIOnal and sCIEnTIFIC sTudY of its flora, fauna, ecology, geology and history. It also attracts large numbers of tourists who contribute substantially to our ECOnOMY.

• Our bushland REduCEs sOIl EROsIOn and land degradation. It protects the water quality in our creeks and rivers and in our drinking water catchments; it acts as a natural filter for all the essential biological cycles on which all people on earth depend.

• Our bushland provides haBITaT for indigenous plant and animal species, conserves rare and endangered flora and fauna, and enables the long-term survival of our animal and plant communities.

• Our bushland provides a BuFFER between the developed areas of the city and the World heritage national Park, and helps to protect the integrity of the park’s ecosystems.

• Our bushland provides WIldlIFE CORRIdORs and vEGETaTIOn lInKs with our national park, enabling us to experience native wildlife in our urban areas.

Above all, our bushland conserves and protects the biodiversity of the unique plants and animals of the Blue Mountains.

With the privilege of living so close to bushland comes the responsibility for its conservation and protection. In many Blue Mountains townships residents have taken positive action to protect and restore their bushland reserves by joining the volunteer Bushcare movement (p.50).

Ian Brown

6

How weeds invade bushlandBlue Mountains townships and villages are perched on ridges above some of the most biologically diverse, fragile and beautiful natural vegetation in the world. Human activities in our townships affect downslope bushland, our national park and our waterways.

Off the garden, into the bush: urban runoffstormwater rushes off hard surfaces —roads, roofs, car parks, factories and driveways, carrying with it pollutants including oils and chemicals, rubbish and organic litter, soil, fertilisers, pesticides, herbicides, sewage from overflows, weed seeds and animal faeces.

This fast-flowing run-off enters the bush, erodes watercourses, silts up creeks, and changes the nature of the soil. Many of the components of urban run-off increase the nutrient levels in the soil. Most of our native plants are adapted to low nutrient conditions. Moist, fertile soil favours the growth of weeds and invasive species soon move in.

Out of the garden, into the bush: bush invadersMany ornamental plants have escaped from our parks and gardens to become bush invaders. Weeds have a number of dispersal methods to spread vigorously into the bush, for example seeds can be spread by wind, birds and other animals, in contaminated soil and on machinery.

Over the fence, into the bush: dumpingWeeds are also spread into bushland by the deliberate dumping of garden prunings, grass cuttings, leaf litter or soil. dumped soil introduces weed seeds, buries native plants and their seeds, and compacts the soil.

Out of the suburbs, into the bush: disturbanceWhy are weeds so prolific along roadsides, bushland edges, watercourses and tracks? disturbances such as clearing, excavating, slashing, mowing and burning, changes soil conditions and creates opportunities for weed invasion. driving, riding, parking and walking on bushland vegetation causes erosion and soil compaction, and introduces weed seeds.

What’s wrong with weeds?Weeds are plants free of their natural controls. They are fast growing, have the ability to grow almost anywhere, reproduce and spread rapidly and thrive in changed bushland conditions. They compete with our native plant species and frequently replace them.

Weeds degrade and destroy the habitat of native fauna and restrict animal and human access to tracks, creeks and waterholes. They reduce local biodiversity and permanently change ecosystems. In the early stages of weed invasion, weeds can be removed and the bush will recover. If left to thrive, weeds can destroy our bush.

7

We can all help—here’s how• Read this book and learn to recognise weeds

• Understand how and why weeds spread

• Remove bush-invading plants from our gardens

• Choose only bush-friendly garden species

• Compost and mulch green waste

• Dispose of other waste at the tip

• Keep garden wastes out of the road gutters

• Keep the garden within its boundaries

• Mulch to improve water absorption and retention

• Retain car wash and garden water on our blocks

• Choose to use phosphorus-free detergents

• Use only organic slow-release fertilisers

• Pick up pet wastes and dispose of them responsibly

• Always keep to authorised bushland tracks

• Encourage friends and neighbours to follow these principles

• Join a local Bushcare or Landcare group or the Bush Backyards Program (see p.50)

As we become increasingly urbanised, our challenge is to develop sustainable lifestyle patterns that will enable us to live in harmony with our bushland.

nOT In MY BaCKYaRd!

norm

an Yeend

8

Regional Priority Weed

Description• an evergreen tree growing 5–10m. • The upper surface of the leaf is glossy grey-green and the underside is

silver, green to brown. leaves have a hooked tip. • White flowers in spring. • Fruit is oval-shaped, green maturing to purple-black.

Dispersalseed is spread by birds and foxes.

Impactsafrican Olives aggressively invade cleared land, reducing the value and productivity of properties. The plant provides poor habitat for native animals and good habitat for feral birds such as Indian Mynas.

Control• seedlings can be hand pulled if all the roots can be removed. Beds of

dense seedlings can be sprayed.• Established plants will need to be cut and painted with herbicide. • For larger plants, inject herbicide into the stem. The wood is very hard,

so ensure drilling or chiselling gets well into the stem.

NOTE: Treat plants before they fruit.

Plant this insteadThis weed can be confused with the native Mock Olive (Notelaea longifolia). Plant local species of grevilleas, banksias and hakeas.

Current distribution — Mid and lower Mountains.

African Olive Olea europaea ssp. cuspidata

BMCC

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BMCC

Arundo is also known as Giant Reed.

Description There are two common species of invasive bamboo, Golden Bamboo (Phyllostachys aurea) and Black Bamboo (Phyllostachys nigra). Both have underground stems (rhizomes). above ground stems are round and woody. stems of Golden Bamboo grow up to 5m and are yellowish. stems of Black Bamboo grow up to 8m and become shiny black with age.

• Bamboo is a tall, evergreen grass that rarely flowers and so it does not produce seeds.

• arundo is a large, perennial grass that grows in clumps up to 8m. The large above-ground stems arise from thick, scaly rhizomes. The tall, erect, plume-like flower-heads reach 60cm.

DispersalBamboo and arundo spread by the growth of underground stems which sprout new above-ground stems. dispersal of small pieces of rhizomes can occur due to contamination of dumped garden waste or soil.

Impactslarge, dense clumps spread out to form a forest of tall, woody grass stems that suppress all other vegetation and block water flows.

Control• very small amounts of Bamboo and arundo can be dug up. • For large infected areas, cut and paint every stem with herbicide. Wait

for leaves on regrowth and spray before plants reach 0.5m.

It is important to treat the clumps gradually and replace with suitable native species to hold the soil.

NOTE: Follow-up treatments are essential.

Plant this insteadscreening shrubs and small trees such as Hakea dactyloides and Callistemon spp., Acacia spp. and Leptospermum spp.

Current distribution — Whole of Blue Mountains lGa.

Phyllostachys spp. Arundo donax Bamboo & Arundo

Local Priority WeedsBM

CC

BMCC

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e GOLDEN BAMBOOBLACK BAMBOOARUNDO

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Description• a vigorous, evergreen, erect shrub growing to 3m. • leaves are 3–8 cm long, oval-shaped with irregularly toothed edges.

new leaves are light green • Flowers august to October. Flowers are bright yellow and daisy-like. • Boneseed produces up to 50,000 seeds per plant.

Dispersalseeds are spread by birds and other animals that eat the fruit, and by ants which carry seeds into their nests. Boneseed is also spread in dumped garden waste and through the movement of contaminated soil.

ImpactsBoneseed is a highly invasive weed that smothers and out-competes native plants.

Control• small plants can be hand pulled quite easily due to their shallow root

system. Make sure all parts of the root system are removed. • larger plants may need to be cut and painted using herbicide.


Plant this insteadIn the upper Mountains, similar habit plants are: Banksia marginata, Banksia ericifolia, Banksia spinulosa, Lambertia formosa and Olearia spp. (native daisy).In the lower Mountains plant Christmas Bush, Olearia spp. and Ozothamnus diosmifolius.

Current distribution — Mt victoria to lapstone (particularly Medlow Bath).

Boneseed Chrysanthemoides monilifera ssp. monilifera

BMCC

State Priority Weed

11

BMCC

Description• a medium-sized tree with oppositely arranged compound leaves.• leaves have 3–7 leaflets with toothed or lobed margins.• Flowers in spring. Male and female flowers are green or yellowish-

green and lack any petals. Flowers are arranged in drooping clusters. • large v-shaped fruit (3–4cm long) consist of two winged ‘seeds’ that

are joined together at the base. seeds rotate in a propeller-like motion as they fall to the ground.

DispersalThe winged fruits are spread by the wind. seeds may also be dispersed by birds and other animals. large trees that are cut or damaged will re-shoot vigorously and can develop a dense, multi-stemmed habit.

ImpactsBox Elder is particularly invasive along waterways and in sheltered forests. It crowds and shades out native plants. dense infestations can damage waterways by trapping sediment and causing erosion. They also shed large quantities of autumn leaves that deplete oxygen levels in the water.

ControlBox Elders need to be poisoned because they sucker and will coppice (grow new shoots from cut stems).• hand pull small seedlings.• Cut and paint or stem inject larger stems.


Plant this insteadscreening shrubs and small trees such as hakeas, bottlebrushes, wattles and tea trees.

Current distribution — Katoomba to lapstone.

Box ElderAcer negundo

BMCC

Local Priority Weed

12

Description• Cape Broom is a many-branched shrub, growing 3–4m. leaves are

small and have three leaflets. leaves are larger, softer and much more profuse than those of scotch Broom. Flowers in spring and summer. Yellow pea flowers are smaller than scotch Broom but very numerous and form clusters on ends of branches. seed pods are brown and hairy.

• Scotch Broom is an erect, shrub to 3m. stems are ridged and multi-branched. sparse, tiny grey-green leaves have three leaflets. Older plants may be almost leafless. Flowers in spring with many bright yellow pea flowers. Flat, green seed pods turn black when mature, producing huge numbers of hard, brown, shiny seeds.

Dispersalseed pods eject seeds up to 4m from the plant. seeds can also be spread by water, animals, mud on shoes or tyres, and in contaminated soil.

ImpactsBroom produces thousands of seeds per plant per year. It competes with native plants, shading and retarding the growth of understory species, leading to loss of biodiversity. seeds remain in the soil for years, germinating profusely when areas are disturbed by fire, cleared or contaminated by stormwater run-off. Broom creates fuel loads for fires.

Control• hand pull seedlings. • Cut and paint larger plants.

For large dense patches of broom where there are no native plants:• leafy plants less than 30cm can be sprayed. • Taller plants and plants that do not have much leaf can be slashed to

reduce height then sprayed when there is dense leafy regrowth.

NOTE: Follow up treatment is essential.

Plant this insteadlocal species of Gompholobium, Lambertia formosa, Hakea teretifolia, Banksia spinulosa, australian Indigo (Indigofera australis).


Genista monspessulana — Cape or Montpellier BroomCytisus scoparius — Scotch or English BroomBroom

BMCC

State Priority Weed

CAPE BROOM SCOTCH BROOM

13

Butterfly Bush is also known as Buddleia

Description• a semi-deciduous, multi-stemmed, upright shrub with arching stems.

usually grows 1–3m. • stems are square. • leaves are oppositely arranged, dark green, with hairless upper

surfaces and greyish-green, velvety hair underneath. • Flowers summer, autumn and spring. Flowers are mauve or purple

(occasionally white to dark purple) with orange-yellow mouths. • Fruit is an elongated capsule.

Dispersalseeds are mainly spread by wind and water, but also by vehicles, the movement of soil, and in dumped garden waste.

ImpactsButterfly Bush can grow almost anywhere, but prefers nutrient-rich watercourses and creek lines, where it quickly dominates, shading out and replacing native plant species.

Control• seedlings can be hand pulled if all of the roots can be removed.• Beds of dense seedlings can be sprayed.• Established plants will need to be cut and painted using herbicide. • larger plants can be stem injected.

NOTE: This plant can layer if cut stems are left on the ground. Treat plants before they fruit.

Plant this insteadPlant mint bushes (Prostanthera spp.) for their purple flowers and native Fireweed Groundsel (Senecio linearifolius).

Current distribution — upper Mountains.

Buddleja davidii Butterfly Bush

BMCC

Local Priority Weed

14

Prunus laurocerasusCherry Laurel

Description• a multi-stemmed, spreading, evergreen shrub, occasionally a

small tree. • large, leathery oblong leaves with bright green shiny upper surfaces.

The veins are distinctively yellow. upright spikes of tiny, strongly scented, ivory flowers appear in spring.

• Cherry-sized berries (drupes) which ripen from green to purple-black are produced through summer and autumn.

Dispersalspread by birds that eat the fruit, as well as in dumped garden waste.

ImpactsCherry laurel replaces and crowds out native plants. little grows below except for its own seedlings, reducing the diversity of native plants and therefore the habitat provided to native wildlife.

Control• seedlings can be hand pulled if all the roots can be removed. • More established plants will need to be cut and painted using

herbicide. dispose of cuttings as cut stems left on the ground can grow new shoots and roots (particularly when the soil is moist).

• larger plants can be stem injected.


Plant this insteadscreening shrubs and small trees such as Hakea dactyloides and Callistemon spp., Acacia spp. and Leptospermum spp.

Current distribution — Whole of Blue Mountains lGa but particularly upper Mountains.

BMCC

Local Priority Weed

15

BMCC

Description• an evergreen, large shrub or tree. • very spiky, dark green, glossy leaves. • small, whitish, sweetly scented flowers from spring to early autumn. • Bunches of bright red berries in winter.

Dispersalspread by birds and in dumped garden waste. holly also spreads by suckering and layering.

Impactsholly forms dense stands, displaces native plants and changes the environment in which it grows by making the deep shade unsuitable for native plants to germinate. This results in the loss of ground layer plants.

Control• hand dig small seedlings if you can get all of the roots out.• For juvenile plants, scrape and paint, making sure that you scrape at

least 1/3 of the length of the stem.• On larger plants, scrape two sides of the stem. apply the herbicide

immediately on the scraped area.• For plants that have a stem diameter of 4cm or more at the base, stem

inject trunks. For plants taller than 2.5m, either lop off the top half or inject a second ring of herbicide about half way up.

• scrape and paint or inject any exposed roots or layering branches. • Treat each stem with roots as a separate juvenile plant.

NOTE: Cutting the plant without poisoning will not work because holly suckers and coppices (grows multiple shoots from the stem once cut). Leaving fragments of root or stem on the ground can also allow the plant to regrow. Treat plants before they fruit.

Plant this insteadBanksia spp., Grevillea spp., Hakea dactyloides and Callistemon spp., Acacia spp. and Leptospermum spp.


Ilex aquifolium English Holly

BMCC

Local Priority Weed

16

Also known as the Himalayan Strawberry and Himalayan Dogwood.

Description• an evergreen tree growing to 12m. • leaves are grey-green in colour and fuzzy underneath.• In summer very small, fragrant flowers appear. Flowers are surrounded

by 4–6 bracts that are often mistaken for petals. The bracts come in shades of white, yellow, and pink.

• Fruits are green, turning yellow and then red when ripe.

Dispersalspread by birds that eat the fruit, and in dumped garden waste.

ImpactsEvergreen dogwoods grow quickly and can form dense stands that crowd out native plants.

Control• hand pull small seedlings.• Cut and paint or stem inject larger stems. NOTE: Treat plants before they fruit.



Cornus capitataEvergreen Dogwood

treesofsantacruzcounty.blogspot.com

BMCC

BMCC

Local Priority Weed

17

treesofsantacruzcounty.blogspot.com

Description• a dense, extremely spiny, evergreen shrub mostly 1–2.5m. • Flowers from late winter to spring and again in autumn. Gorse

produces abundant bright yellow, pea-shaped flowers 15–25mm long. • seed production is prolific and seeds remain viable for 25 years plus.

DispersalGorse has seed pods which split open explosively, ejecting seeds up to 5m, though most seed falls in or near the canopy of mature bushes. significant long-distance dispersal occurs via machinery and through contaminated soil. Water and ants are also important seed dispersers.

ImpactGorse poses a serious threat to conservation values of the upper Blue Mountains. It adapts to most soils, especially fertile soils along drainage lines and creeks where urban run-off has deposited nutrient-rich silt. Gorse competes vigorously with native plants for nutrients and water, forms impenetrable thickets, and replaces native vegetation in significant shrub and sedge swamp communities and along creek-lines, often in areas where rare native plants are found. Because it is highly flammable, its dense stands are a considerable fire hazard.

Control• hand pull seedlings. • Cut and paint larger plants.

NOTE: Follow up is essential to remove new seedlings emerging from soil-stored seeds. Regular slashing or mowing is not effective in eradicating Gorse as plants regrow from cut stumps or dormant seed in the soil when slashing stops.

Plant this insteadlocal species of Gompholobium, or Lambertia formosa, Hakea teretifolia and Banksia spinulosa.

Current distribution — Mt victoria to Wentworth Falls but mainly around Blackheath.

Ulex europaeus Gorse

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eState Priority Weed

18

Description• a medium-sized, perennial shrub growing 2–3m. It usually has many

light green, brittle stems.• The shiny, green leaves have smooth edges, are pointed at each end,

and produce a pungent, foul smell when crushed.• Flowers from late spring to autumn. The flowers are normally yellow,

but may have a green tinge. They grow in clusters at the end of branches and produce an unpleasant perfume during the day, but can smell quite sweet in the evening.

• Clusters of shiny, black, egg-shaped berries 7–10 mm long, are produced during summer and autumn. Berries are green until ripe.

• Green Cestrum frequently causes ‘sudden death’ in livestock.

Dispersalseeds are spread by birds that have eaten the berries, and washed along watercourses during heavy rainfall.

ImpactsIf left untreated, Green Cestrum can produce monocultures.

ControlThe most effective method of control for large plants is stem injection.• hand dig small seedlings if you can get all of the roots out. • For juvenile plants, scrape and paint.• Exposed roots can also be scraped and painted or injected.


Plant this insteadalong creek-banks and stormwater drainage lines plant Fishbone Water Fern (Blechnum nudum), Prickly Rasp Fern (Doodia aspera), Common Ground Fern (Calochlaena dubia), Broad Rush (Juncus planifolius), Common Rush (Juncus usitatus) and Tall sedge (Carex appressa).

In drier areas plant Correa spp. or Oak-leaved daisy Bush (Olearia quercifolia).

Current distribution — lower and Mid Mountains.

Cestrum parquiGreen Cestrum

BMCC


19

BMCC

Description• a deciduous, multi-stemmed shrub to 3m. • stems are erect, hollow and bamboo-like. distinguished by opposite

leaves joined by a ridge across the stem. • The leaves are heart-shaped. • Flowers in spring and summer. White tubular flowers grow in long,

drooping lantern-like spikes, partly concealed by reddish-purple bracts. • Fruits are ovoid, fleshy berries that turn dark crimson when ripe. Each

berry contains more than 100 small seeds.

Dispersalspread by animals and water. himalayan honeysuckle escapes from gardens and is also spread in dumped garden waste.

Impactshimalayan honeysuckle invades sensitive, moist bushland such as Blue Mountains swamps where it displaces native vegetation.

Control• seedlings and small plants can be hand pulled if all of the roots can be

removed. use a trowel or knife to assist by loosening the soil. • More established plants need to be cut and painted using a herbicide. • larger plants can be stem injected by drilling into the woody base

(root ball) and filling with herbicide.


Plant this insteadCrimson Bottlebrush (Callistemon citrinus) and grevilleas that like swampy heath such as Grevillea acanthifolia.

Current distribution — Mt victoria to lawson andMt Wilson to Mt Tomah.

Leycesteria formosa Himalayan Honeysuckle

BMCC

Local Priority Weed

20

Description• a heavily branching shrub of 2–4m which grows in dense thickets or

clumps. The stems are square with short hooked prickles.• Mid green, oval, leaves that are deeply wrinkled and hairy, and have

toothed edges. They are opposite on the stem. Crushing leaves or stems produces a strong characteristic smell.

• Flowers most of the year. Flowers grow in clusters which vary in colour. There are five colour types: pink, white, pink-edged red, red and orange.

• Fruits form clusters of fleshy, purplish-black berries.

DispersalFruit-eating birds are the main source of dispersal, spreading seed in their droppings. Mammals are also known to eat and disperse seeds. lantana can also spread by layering (i.e. when stems take root when they are in contact with moist soil).

ImpactsInvades bushland where is forms thickets and dense shade displacing native vegetation. Infestations of lantana create fuel loads for fire.

Control• hand pull small plants, after loosening the soil with a trowel. • Cut and paint larger plants. as cut stems can layer profusely in moist

areas, these should be placed securely off the ground to avoid contact with soil.

• spray large dense patches of lantana where there are no native plants.

Plant this insteadlocal provenance grevilleas, banksias and hakeas make great hedge plants and habitat for native birds. Hakea teretifolia, Lambertia formosa and Leucopogon lanceolata are all spiky bushes that provide shelter and protection for small native birds. In the lower Mountains plant Bursaria spinosa subsp. spinosa.

Current distribution — lapstone to Faulconbridge.

Lantana spp.Lantana

BMCC

State Priority Weed

21

BMCC

Description• Large-leaf Privet is a robust, vigorous, evergreen, and fast growing

shrub to small tree up to 10m. stems are covered in lenticels (white dots). large, dark green, oval leaves with a pointed tip.

• Small-leaf Privet is a branching, densely leafed, evergreen shrub to small tree up to 5m. stems are woody and are light brown. Oval leaves are 2–5cm long and end in a pointed tip.

• abundant clusters of small, white, strongly-scented tubular flowers from late spring to summer. Green berries mature to blue-black in winter.

DispersalOne privet plant can produce up to a million seeds. seeds are spread by fruit-eating birds and are also washed down waterways.

ImpactsPrivet is usually found in moist, nutrient-rich gullies where it shades out native plants and transforms habitats into weed plumes. Once the fast-growing seedlings establish, their matted, fibrous root systems deprive native plants of nutrients and moisture. Mature privet plumes block out light and lower the temperature, preventing germination of native seeds and causing the death of established eucalypts.

Control• seedlings can be hand pulled if all of the roots can be removed. use a

trowel to loosen the soil first. • seedling beds can be sprayed with a selective herbicide. Ensure

preparation around native plants before spraying.• Established plants will need to be cut and painted using herbicide. • larger plants can be stem injected.


Plant this insteadlilly Pilly (Acmena smithii), Cheese Tree (Glochidion ferdinandi), Black Wattle (Callicoma serratifolia) or Blueberry ash (Elaeocarpus reticulatus)

Current distribution — Whole of the Blue Mountains lGa.

PrivetLigustrum lucidum — Large-leaf Privet Ligustrum sinense — Small-leaf Privet

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Local Priority Weed

LARGE-LEAF PRIVET SMALL-LEAF PRIVET

22

Salix cinereaPussy Willow

Description• a multi-stemmed, deciduous tree about 8–12m. • Bark is smooth at first, becoming fissured with age. longitudinal ridges

under the bark are a distinguishing feature (you may need to peel bark to see the ridges).

• leaves are oval-shaped with a short, pointed tips. leaves emerge after the catkins or flower heads. Catkins are produced in mid spring. The catkins on male trees are yellowish with pollen. The female catkins are fluffy and grey-green.

• In late spring ‘fluff’ from female trees contains thousands of tiny seeds.

Dispersalseeds travel easily on wind and water for many kilometres. Pussy Willow also spreads by fragments of stems or twigs breaking off and growing new shoots in moist situations.

ImpactsWillows grow rapidly and destroy natural ecosystems such as streams and swamps. They hold back sediment in creeks creating huge silt beds that clog waterways and become sites for other weeds. Willows take oxygen out of streams.

Controlstem injection is an effective treatment. This must be done to all trunks and stems and as close to the ground as possible. do not leave cut material lying on the ground as Pussy Willow can regrow from small amounts of stem.

Plant this insteadPlant native creek-line vegetation species such as Black Wattle (Callicoma serratifolia) and native sedges such as saw sedge (Gahnia sieberiana).


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State Priority Weed

23

Spanish Heath is also known as Portuguese Heath.

Description• a dense, multi-stemmed, fast growing, evergreen shrub to 3m. • stems are upright or arching. Young stems are hairy. • leaves are 4–7mm long, tightly rolled, finely pointed, linear and dense. • Flowers profusely in winter to early spring. Flowers are bell-shaped,

white (pink when in bud) and in clusters towards the end of branches.• Fruit is a capsule containing many fine seeds that mature over spring.

Alertspanish heath looks like a native plant and is often confused with native heath plants (Epacris spp.) which also have small leaves and bell-shaped flowers. You can tell the difference if you look closely—spanish heath flowers have four petals and native heath flowers have five petals.

Dispersalseeds dispersed by water, wind, in soil and in dumped garden waste germinate rapidly. spanish heath also suckers, layers and coppices.

Impactsspanish heath can grow in poor soil displacing native plants including creek-line vegetation. The fine, dense roots form a mat which suppresses the growth of other plants. Fire also results in germination of huge numbers of seedlings from the seed bank in the soil.

Control• small plants can be hand pulled if all of the roots can be removed.

use a trowel to loosen the soil first as stems and roots are brittle.• Established plants will need to be cut and painted with herbicide. • larger plants can be stem injected.


Plant this insteadnative heath plants such as Epacris microphylla and Epacris paludosa.

Current distribution — Mid to upper Mountains.

Erica lusitanica Spanish Heath

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Local Priority Weed

24

Description• a semi-evergreen shrub to 1.5m. stems are reddish and soft wooded,

sometimes arching.• leaves are stalkless, green on the upper surface and paler greyish-

green below (some turn red during autumn). Crushed leaves have a slight curry-like aroma.

• Yellow flowers form clusters on the tips of branches in summer. • Hypericum androsaemum has a fleshy, berry-like fruit that turns red

in autumn. The fruit of Hypericum kouytchense is a dry capsule from which oval- shaped, brown seeds are produced in large numbers.

DispersalThe seeds are spread by birds, foxes, water and contaminated soil.

ImpactsTutsan is a serious threat in damp and wet sclerophyll forests. It forms dense thickets that displace native vegetation. Hypericum kouytchense is often found in swamps, and both species occur along creek-line edges.

Control• seedlings can be hand pulled if all of the roots can be removed.

use a trowel or knife to loosen the soil first. • Cut and paint mature plants with herbicide. as the plant can layer

(particularly in swamps), scrape and paint method may be required. • dense seedling beds can be sprayed with a selective herbicide if native

plants are protected. don’t spray in creek-lines or swamps.

NOTE: Avoid using herbicide treatments in winter when Tutsan is semi-dormant. Treat plants before they fruit.

Plant this insteadalternative plants that will hold soils on creek banks and stormwater drainage lines include Fishbone Water Fern (Blechnum nudum), Prickly Rasp Fern (Doodia aspera) and Common Ground Fern (Calochlaena dubia), Broad Rush (Juncus planifolius), Common Rush (Juncus usitatus) and Tall sedge (Carex appressa). In drier areas plant Correa spp.

Current distribution — Mid to upper Mountains.

Tutsan Hypericum androsaemum & Hypericum kouytchense (syn.H. x moserianum)

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Local Priority Weed

25

BMCC

Mt Morgan Wattle is also known as Queensland Silver Wattle.

DescriptionCootamundra Wattle and Mt Morgan Wattle are popular native plants that have become invasive outside their original range.

• Cootamundra Wattle is a shrub or small tree 4–8m. silvery-blue to blue-green leaves appear feathery and crowded on the stem. Clusters of bright yellow, fluffy, fragrant flower heads appear in winter to early spring. seed pods are flattish and mature to brown or black.

• Mt Morgan Wattle is an upright, spreading shrub or small tree 2–6m. Bark on the main trunk is grey or greyish-brown. Young, round branches have a dense covering of hairs. The ‘leaves’ (actually flattened and widened leaf stalks) alternate along the stems. dense clusters of small, yellow, fluffy flowers. Fruits are long, flattened pods with short stalks. velvety seed pods are bluish-green or silvery-grey.

Dispersalseeds are dispersed by birds, ants, machinery and in dumped garden waste.

ImpactsWattles are fast growing and prolific seeders. They move into bushland displacing local wattles. some infestations are scattered while others are dense stands where they shade out local native plants. seeds are long-lived in the soil and germinate quickly after fire and other disturbances.

Control• seedlings and small plants are easily hand pulled. • Cut and paint or stem inject young plants. • stem inject large trees with herbicide

NOTE: Treat plants before they fruit. Bag and remove all pods.

Plant this insteadPlant local native wattles such as Acacia parramattensis, Black Wattle (Acacia decurrens), sydney Golden Wattle (Acacia longifolia), sunshine Wattle (Acacia terminalis) or Prickly Moses (Acacia ulicifolia).

WattleAcacia baileyana — Cootamundra Wattle Acacia podalyriifolia — Mt Morgan Wattle

BMCC

Local Priority Weed

COOTAMUNDRA WATTLE MT MORGAN WATTLE

26

Wild Black Cherry

Description• a deciduous tree 8–16m.• leaves have fine-toothed edges. The upper surface is shiny, and paler

underneath.• Flowers appear in spring to early summer. Flower hang like pendants.

The small, white flowers have five petals and are heavily scented.• The fruits are like small cherries.

Dispersalspread by birds that eat the fruits and in dumped garden waste.

ImpactsWild Black Cherry can form dense stands that crowd out native plants.

ControlPlants need to be poisoned because they sucker and will coppice (grow new shoots from cut stems).

• hand pull small seedlings.

• Cut and paint or stem inject larger stems.




Prunus serotina

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Local Priority Weed

27

BMCC

Description• an erect, perennial herb growing to 1.2m with spreading

underground structures. • The glossy, dark green leaves are long and strap-like. • Flowers in summer. Flowers are blue or white and occur in large

rounded heads at the top of thick flower stems. • Fruits are three-sided capsules containing tiny black seeds.

Dispersalspreads by seed, underground roots and fragments. The seeds are transported easily in soil, and by wind and water. agapanthus is commonly spread in dumped garden waste.

Impactsagapanthus forms thick, dense clumps. underground structures also form large, continually extended clumps. The dense clumps crowd out native species affecting the biodiversity of natural areas, especially native understorey.

Control• spraying infestations with herbicide is generally not effective. • dig out plants, making sure all of the roots are removed.

NOTE: Follow up treatments will be needed.

Plant this insteadBaeckea spp., Boronia spp., local native Rock daisies (Brachyscome angustifolia), Everlasting daisies (such as Bracteantha spp.), groundcover Grevilleas (Grevillea laurifolia).


Agapanthus praecox subsp.orientalis Agapanthus

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Local Priority Weed

28

Description• Asparagus Fern (Asparagus aethiopicus) has long arching stems up

to 2m long. Commonly grown as an ornamental plant. light green, sharp-pointed, slender leaves. Clusters of small, creamy flowers. Fruits ripen to bright red from september to October.

• Ming Fern (Asparagus macowanii var. zuluensis) or Pom-pom asparagus grows 1–2m. White to cream flowers in summer. Round, green berries mature to purple.

• Bridal Creeper (Asparagus asparagoides) is a perennial climber. The roots consist of many tubers grouped along a central root system. shoots emerge from the soil in autumn and produce shiny green leaves. White flowers from august–september. Green berries turn red in late spring to early summer. Plants can produce >1,000 berries per m2.

Dispersalspread by underground roots (generally in dumped garden waste) and through seed dispersal by birds.

ImpactsPlants strongly compete with native groundcovers and understorey plants. They form dense infestations that smother native plants, preventing the germination and establishment of native species.

Control• Crown the fibrous roots of the plant making sure to remove all of the

flattened horny crown at the top of the root system; or• spray with herbicide if it is possible to avoid contact with desirable

plants or soil near tree root zones.


Plant this insteadLomandra longifolia, Daviesia ulicifolia, Oxylobium ilicifolium, Dianella caerulea, native sarsaparilla, Hardenbergia spp. and Kennedia spp.

Current distribution — Whole of Blue Mountains lGa, mainly lower Mountains.

Asparagus Fern, Ming Fern& Bridal Creeper

©State of N

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State/Regional Priority Weeds

BRIDAL CREEPERMING FERNASPARAGUS FERN

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©State of N

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Description • Crofton Weed (Ageratina adenophora) is a shrubby perennial with

a woody rootstock and numerous, upright branching stems. Grows 1–2m. distinctive purple-red stems and bright green, tooth-edged leaves. Flowers profusely in spring and summer producing dense clusters of white, sticky, hairy flowers at the ends of branches. Produces millions of seeds. Crofton Weed is poisonous to horses.

• Mist Flower (Ageratina riparia) is a perennial, herb that grows 40–60cm. It has spreading stems and long, tapered leaves with toothed edges that are arranged oppositely along the branches. Mist Flowers have white, tubular, fluffy flowers. seeds are dark brown to black with hairy ridges that run lengthwise.

Dispersalseeds are spread by wind and water over long distances. They are also spread by vehicles, in clothing, in soil and stock feed, and in dumped garden waste.

Impactsspreads easily along creek lines and into bushland areas, forming dense stands, smothering native grasses and out-competing native shrubs.

Control• Most plants can be hand pulled easily, particularly when the ground is

moist. Make sure all of the roots are removed. • When hand removal is not possible, or there is a concern about

destabilising creek banks, use the cut and paint method. • spray low, dense patches if there are no native plants nearby.

NOTE: Treat before they flower to avoid spreading seeds. Crofton Weed and Mist Flower will grow roots from their stems so do not leave removed plants on the ground. Ensure that all parts of the plant (including roots) are bagged and disposed of in hot compost.

Plant this insteadsee for Tutsan p.24.

Crofton Weed & Mist Flower

BMCC

Local Priority Weeds

BRIDAL CREEPER MIST FLOWERCROFTON WEED

30

Description• Blue Periwinkle is a vine with a woody crown bearing runners up to 1m

long. Roots are hardy and fibrous, forming a mat 15–30cm deep.• leaves are large (15–60mm long). Each leaf pair is generally at right

angles to those above and below. The upper leaf surface is glossy with very short hairs along the leaf margins.

• Flowers are large, 30–40mm across and blue-purple (sometimes white) with 5 lobes. Flowers are borne on upright stems to 50cm long.

• Fruits (follicles) are 35–40mm long, tapered at both ends.

NOTE: When not in flower, native Guinea Flower looks like Periwinkle.

DispersalMost populations only grow from pieces of the plant, but some produce viable seeds. Infestations usually come from dumped garden waste.

ImpactsBlue Periwinkle covers the ground, smothering all other plants and stopping the regeneration of native plants.

Control• hand remove small isolated patches (less than 1m2) of Blue Periwinkle

and plants growing near native vegetation. all plant material needs to be picked up and spread out off the ground to avoid resprouting.

• scrape and paint with herbicide.• spray dense areas of Blue Periwinkle devoid of native plants. use a

weak solution of herbicide with a surfactant (such as detergent) to thoroughly wet all foliage and stems.

NOTE: Follow up treatment is essential.

Plant this insteadnative violet (Viola hederacea), Twining Purple-pea (Hardenbergia violacea), Wonga Wonga vine (Pandorea pandorana), Guinea Flower (Hibbertia scandens), dusky Coral Pea (Kennedia rubicunda), Old Man’s Beard (Clematis aristata). avoid cultivated Clematis as some are weedy.


Blue Periwinkle Vinca major

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Local Priority Weed

31


BMCC

Local Priority Weed

Description• Montbretia is a perennial herb with bright green, spear-shaped leaves. • long spikes of orange, tubular flowers appear from January–March.• Plants die down after producing seeds in autumn, reappearing in spring.• under the ground Montbretia has long strings of corms which break

away when the parent plant is disturbed and begin to shoot. There may be 14 or more of these corms on each plant.

DispersalMontbretia spreads vigorously by corm production. Corms are washed downstream or are spread by the movement of soil and in dumped garden waste. Montbretia also spreads by seed.

ImpactsMontbretia crowds out all other vegetation and is responsible for serous habitat loss. It competes with and displaces creek-line native plants. The weight of the mass of corms can cause erosion and the collapse of stream banks. It thrives in soils contaminated by stormwater run-off.

Control• dig up very small, young plants (less than 10cm). do not dig where the

loose soil will erode (such as creek sides and creek banks).• Where there are individual plants, small patches or where Montbretia

is found with native plants, wipe the leaves with diluted herbicide mix. When done correctly, this is an extremely successful technique (see Fact sheet: weedsbluemountains.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/make-and-use-a-montbretia-wiper.pdf ).

• dense patches can be sprayed if well away from all native plants, watercourses or swamps.

Plant this insteadBaeckea spp., Boronia spp., local native Rock daisies (Brachyscome angustifolia), Everlasting daisies (such as Bracteantha spp.), groundcover grevilleas (Grevillea laurifolia).


MontbretiaCrocosmia x crocosmiiflora

BMCC

32

Description• a perennial lily that grows to about 1.5m. • Grass-like narrow leaves are v-shaped in profile, with a distinctive mid-

vein on the under surface. • Flowers late summer to early autumn. Bright red, orange and yellow

flowers on the ends of erect flower stems that rise above the leaves.• Fruits are capsules containing many seeds.

DispersalPlants are spread in dumped garden waste and seeds are wind dispersed.

Impactsdense clumps of Red hot Pokers crowd out all other vegetation. They compete with and displace native plants in creek-lines and swamps.

Control• Control of large plants is easier and more effective if any seed heads

are removed first and the plant is slashed before grubbing out or painting the crown and roots with herbicide.

• dig out plants with a mattock. Ensure all roots are removed. • do not dig Red hot Pokers out where the loose soil will erode,

particularly on creek sides or creek banks.• Where there are individual plants, small patches or where Red

hot Pokers are found with native plants, wipe leaves with diluted herbicide (see Fact sheet: weedsbluemountains.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/make-and-use-a-montbretia-wiper.pdf ).

• Flowers and seed heads should be bagged.


Plant this insteadBird attracting natives, screening shrubs and small trees such as Banksia spp., Grevillea spp., Hakea dactyloides and Callistemon spp., Acacia spp. and Leptospermum spp.


Kniphofia uvariaRed Hot Poker

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33

BMCC

Description• a sprawling, perennial herb with wiry stems.• leaves are alternate and usually toothed.• seaside daisy produces large numbers of daisy-like flowers, white and

often pink-tinged with a distinctive, yellow centre. Flowers all year but mainly spring to summer.

• Each flower produces many small, light seeds.

Dispersalseaside daisy is a garden escapee. It is commonly dispersed into bushland in dumped garden waste. The seeds are dispersed by wind and water. It also spreads from stem layering, broken roots and underground stems (rhizomes).

Impactsseaside daisy spreads rapidly to form dense mats that can grow in disturbed areas, open habitats and creek-lines. It crowds out and displaces native ground covers.

Control• hand pull small plants. • dig out larger plants—make sure all stems and

rhizomes are removed. • Bag and remove flowers and seed heads.


Plant this insteadBaeckea spp., Boronia spp., local native Rock daisies (Brachyscome angustifolia), Everlasting daisies (such as Bracteantha spp.), groundcover grevilleas (Grevillea laurifolia).


Erigeron karvinskianus Seaside Daisy

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Local Priority Weed

Description• a rapidly growing, scrambling, perennial herb with soft, succulent

stems that root at nodes to form large clumps. • leaf-blades have minute hairs on the margins. leaves narrow towards

the base then expand to broad sheaths around the stems. upper margins of sheaths have long hairs. leaf backs are sometimes purple.

• small, white flowers with three triangular petals in spring to autumn.• Trad causes dermatitis in dogs if they roll in it.• Often confused with the native Commelina (Commelina cyanea) and

native Basket Grass (Oplismenus spp.). Commelina has blue flowers and weak fleshy roots. Basket Grass leaves are matt compared to Trad.

Dispersalspreads by fragments of stem that easily root. spread in dumped garden waste. Fragments of stem are also washed down waterways.

ImpactsTrad grows rapidly in damp, shaded, nutrient-rich areas forming thick blankets of leaves that exclude light and smother low-growing native plants and seedlings. Trad dramatically reduces biodiversity.

ControlTrad is difficult to remove as stems break easily at the nodes and they can quickly put down new roots from any plant fragment. • hand remove using a knife, taking care to remove all parts of plants.• Rake and roll Trad towards you into coils (easy to pick up and bag).

Treat by composting or feeding to chickens, or dispose of in general waste. Coils can be baked on-site in the sun, covered with black builders’ plastic and secured with rocks. allow to ‘bake’ for 6 weeks.

• Only spray large, dense patches away from water and native plants.

NOTE: Follow up is essential for all techniques.

Plant this insteadWeeping meadow grass (Microlaena stipoides); native violet (Viola hederacea); Kidney Weed (Dichondra repens).


Trad Tradescantia fluminensis

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Description• Tough, dense, upright, clumping grasses. • densely packed leaves arch from the base of the clumps. • Flower in late summer and autumn. • large, feathery, fan-like, silver to pink flowers grow on the ends of

2–3m stems rising above the foliage from the base of the clump. • In autumn, Zebra Grass produces large numbers of fluffy seeds. Each

seed has a fine twisted awn that helps it stick onto clothing etc.• Pollen is allergenic.

DispersalThe fluffy seeds of Zebra Grass and Miscanthus are wind dispersed. seeds from both grasses can travel on tyres, shoes, clothing, and in soil. They also spread from rhizomes and dumped garden waste.

ImpactsZebra Grass and Miscanthus form dense tufts that cause displacement of native plants.

Control• small infestations, single plants and small patches of Zebra

Grass and Miscanthus can be controlled by hand removal. • all flowering and seeding material should be bagged and

disposed of appropriately. • dig out tufts, working gradually from the uninfested bush

edge in 1–2m strips. • Follow up treatment on regrowth and allow the area to

stabilise before starting on a new patch. • deseed remaining plants annually to prevent spread into

cleared areas.

Plant this insteadPlant tufted native grasses such as Kangaroo Grass (Themeda triandra).


Miscanthus sinensis Zebra Grass & Miscanthus

BMCC

3636

Description• a perennial, woody, semi-deciduous shrub with prickly stems (canes). • leaves are compound with 3–5 leaflets. They are dark green on top

with a lighter green on the undersides. • Flowers november to March. Flowers are white to pink with five petals. • Bunches of berries ripen from green to purplish-black in late summer

and autumn.

Dispersalseeds are mostly spread by birds and foxes. Root fragments and first year canes that touch the ground also produce roots and create more plants.

ImpactsBlackberry spreads rapidly into bushland. shrubs form dense thickets that prevent native species from growing.

ControlBlackberry is one of the more difficult plants to treat effectively and follow up is essential. • dig out small seedlings in soft ground without breaking off roots.• For juvenile and mature plants in swamps or other soft ground, loosen

the ground and carefully dig up the whole plant with all the roots. • For mature plants with a woody crown (root ball) wider than 25mm

use the cut crown method.• For seedlings and juvenile and mature plants without accessible root

crown, scrape and paint canes. • For dense thickets with no natives—spray with a selective herbicide.


Plant this insteadPlant native Rubus species (R. parvifolius, R. hillii), Guinea Flower (Hibbertia scandens), Twining Purple-pea (Hardenbergia violacea), Wonga Wonga vine (Pandorea pandorana).


Rubus fruticosus spp. aggBlackberry

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BMCC

State Priority Weed

3737

BMCC

State Priority Weed

Dolichandra unguis-cati syn. Macfadyena unguis-cati Cat’s Claw Creeper

Description• a perennial, woody vine with stems extending for 20m or more. Plants

have tubers and roots arising from the shoots (adventitious roots). Its name comes from the three-clawed tendril that helps the plant climb.

• leaves comprise two egg-shaped leaflets. • Flowers in spring—yellow flowers with orange lines in the flower tube. • Fruits contain high numbers of seeds with membranous wings.

DispersalThe wings on the seeds aid dispersal, particularly by water and wind. Established plants can reproduce from tubers and creeping stems. detached tubers and cuttings can re-sprout in all conditions.

ImpactsIf left untreated Cat’s Claw Creeper can grow to have very thick stems. It smothers and kills mature trees, opening up the canopy for other weeds. In areas where there are no trees to climb it forms dense, above-ground mats that prevent growth and germination of native vegetation. Cat’s Claw Creeper can invade intact plant communities.

Control• hand dig seedlings if you can remove all of the roots and the tuber. • scrape and paint with herbicide. It is best to scrape with a toothed

instrument such as a wall board saw, then cut the aerial section 50cm above the ground. Make sure there is extensive scraping both above and below the cut, and that the herbicide is applied immediately.

• drill and inject large stems.• spray with herbicide if there are no native plants nearby. NOTE: Follow up treatments will be needed.

Plant this insteadWonga Wonga vine (Pandorea pandorana), Water vine (Cissus antarctica), and Old Man’s Beard (Clematis aristata).

Current distribution — lower Blue Mountains.

BMCC

3838

Description• Cape Ivy is a vigorous vine. Glossy leaves are alternate and have 3–8

lobes. daisy-like, yellow, scented flowers from winter to early spring. Tiny, dandelion-like seeds equipped with a small hairy ‘parachutes’.

• English Ivy is an evergreen vine with dark green, waxy leaves. leaves are three-lobed on juvenile plants and change to un-lobed, oval leaves when the plant is mature. small, greenish flowers occur in umbrella-like clusters on mature plants from summer to autumn. Purplish to black berry-like fruits mature in spring.

Dispersal• Ivy regenerates very easily from stem fragments and

is commonly spread in dumped garden waste.• Cape Ivy seed is dispersed by wind and water. • English Ivy seed is mainly spread by birds.

Impactshighly invasive plants forming dense curtains that eventually collapse forest canopies and prevent regeneration of native plants.

Control• hand pull all runners, small plants and seedlings making sure to

remove all parts of the plant, especially in moist areas.• Cut and paint, or scrape and paint main woody stems with herbicide.

For vines climbing up trees: • scrape each stem and paint with herbicide; or • stem inject very large vines.

NOTE: Avoid pulling dead or alive Ivy off tree trunks as it damages tree bark. Treat infestations before winter flowering to prevent seeds setting.

Plant this insteadTwining Purple-Pea (Hardenbergia violacea), Wonga Wonga vine (Pandorea pandorana), Water vine (Cissus antarctica), Old Man’s Beard (Clematis aristata).

Current distribution — Whole of Blue Mountains local lGa. Cape Ivy is mostly found in Mid and lower Mountains.

Ivy Delairea odorata — Cape Ivy Hedera helix — English Ivy

BMCC

Local Priority Weed

CAPE IVY ENGLISH IVY

3939

BMCC

Local Priority Weed

Description• a vigorous, fast growing, scrambling and climbing shrub with

distinctive pinkish new stems. Old stems can become thick and gnarly. • different shaped leaves: juvenile leaves are lobed; and adult leaves are

oval and in opposite pairs on the stem.• Flowers spring to autumn. small, yellow, cream to white flowers with a

pink tube. Flowers occur in pairs and are fragrant and nectar-filled. • small, shiny, black berries occur in autumn.

Dispersal• seeds are spread by birds and water and in dumped garden waste.• also spreads by stems that form roots at the stem nodes.

ImpactsJapanese honeysuckle forms blankets over shrubs and low canopy trees, blocking the light, breaking branches and reducing biodiversity.

Controlhoneysuckle twines around other plants, making it fiddly to control.

For vines climbing up shrubs or trees:• scrape each stem as far as possible and paint with herbicide.

vines can then be cut; or • For plants with large crowns, cut through the crown and paint

with herbicide.• scrape and paint all roots as far as possible.

For vines growing on the ground: • Pull out by hand, making sure to remove all of the root and stem parts.

all material needs to be securely placed above the ground to ensure it will not take root and regrow; or

• spray where the foliage is dense and there are no native plants nearby.

NOTE: Do not pull vines out of trees.

Plant this insteadsee for Cat’s Claw Creeper p.37.


Japanese Honeysuckle Lonicera japonica

BMCC

Description• Balloon vine (Cardiospermum grandiflorum) stems grow to more than

10m long. leaves have three leaflets each, further divided into three. The margins of leaflets are irregularly toothed. Flowers most of the year. Flowers have four white petals in clusters. The fruits have three seeds encased in white, three-sided papery lanterns.

• Madeira vine (Andredera cordifolia) is a perennial climbing vine growing up to 30m. Fleshy, twining stems break easily. large, heart-shaped fleshy leaves are hairless and sometimes glossy. Flowers in autumn, producing masses of drooping flower clusters.

NOTE: Madeira Vine is distinguished by greyish-brown or greenish-coloured warty, aerial tubers that form along the older stems.

Dispersal• Balloon vine is spread by seeds transported by wind and water. The

papery seed pods form little ‘boats’ that travel easily down waterways. seedlings germinate most of the year on disturbed land.

• Madeira vine spreads by releasing aerial tubers which then take root. aerial and underground tubers are also spread in dumped garden waste and can be transported downstream in waterways.

ImpactsPlants spread over the ground, or climb trees and shrubs. This reduces light penetration, eventually killing the plants underneath and preventing the germination and regeneration of native plants. The sheer weight of dense infestations can bring down trees in the canopy layer.

Control• Juvenile and mature plants can be scraped and painted with herbicide.

scrape each stem as far as possible.• Old vines with large stems can be stem injected, or cut and painted.• spray Madiera vine with a selective herbicide if no native plants nearby.• Cut vines out of the tree canopy.

NOTE: Remove all parts of Madeira Vine (including all tubers) from site.

Balloon Vine • Madeira Vine

BMCCBALOON VINE MADEIRA VINE

State & Local Priority Weeds

BMCC

Moth Vine • Morning Glory

Description• Moth vine (Araujia sericifera) has twining stems that grow to 5m.

stems contain a milky white sap. leaves are three-lobed with wavy margins. They are grey-green in colour, square at the base with a long tip. Clusters of creamy-white to pale pink flowers in spring and summer. The fruits look like chokos but split to release thousands of fly-away, dandelion-like seeds.

• Morning Glory (Ipomoea purpurea) is a vigorous, twining, perennial climber. leaves are large, light green, heart-shaped and usually three-lobed. Both leaves and stems are hairy. Flowers most of the year. Trumpet-shaped flowers have blue to purplish petals and green segments (sepals) outside the petals. The plant rarely sets seed.

Dispersal• Morning Glory is spread in dumped garden waste.

new plants grow from stem fragments, rooting at stem nodes then sending off multiple stems.

• Moth vine is wind dispersed.

Impacts(see for Balloon vine and Madiera vine)

Control(see for Balloon vine and Madiera vine)

NOTE: Moth Vine cannot be sprayed. Hand pull young plants or scrape and paint.

Plant this insteadThe native vine slender Grape (Cayratia clematidea) looks very similar to Balloon vine—they both have leaves with leaflets and toothed margins. The native plant has five leaflets and is not hairy. The weed has nine leaflets and is hairy. Plant Water vine (Cissus antarctica), Wonga Wonga vine (Pandorea pandorana), Hardenbergia spp., Kennedia spp. or native Clematis.

Current distribution — lower Blue Mountains.

Local Priority WeedsBM

CCMOTH VINE MORNING GLORY

4242

White Jasmine

Description• a vigorous, evergreen, twining climber with tough stems.• White Jasmine has compound leaves with 5–7 leaflets.• Flowers in spring. Clusters of highly scented, white, tubular flowers

(pink in bud) that look star-like when open. White Jasmine can be confused with the native Wonga Wonga vine before it develops its distinctive compound leaves and before it flowers.

DispersalThe plant spreads by layering and suckering. White Jasmine is a popular garden plant that has spread from gardens and in dumped garden waste.

ImpactsClimbs rapidly into the tree canopy and covers vegetation at all levels, blocking light and restricting the growth of native species. Its weight may also bring down trees. a serious weed of rainforests and riparian areas.

Controlstems travel long distances across the ground, frequently rooting down at leaf nodes (layering) to form new plants.

For vines climbing up trees:• scrape each stem and paint with herbicide.

For vines that have grown up into the canopy of a tree or shrub:• Cut every vine stem to ensure the parts in the tree canopy die. Cut

stems about 50cm above the ground, but first ensure that you have scraped and painted above and below the planned cut. Keep the cut low to allow stems to be reached for re-treatment.

For vines growing as a groundcover: • hand pull, making sure to remove all of the root and stem parts.

securely place cut material off the ground, so that it cannot take root.• spray where the foliage is dense and there are no native plants nearby.


Plant this instead — see for Cat’s Claw Creeper p.37.


Jasminum polyanthum

Local Priority WeedBM

CC

BMCC

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Controlling weeds 1Using herbicidesMany of the weed control techniques suggested in this booklet involve the use of herbicides. herbicides are poisons and should be handled with great care. They can be absorbed through the skin, by breathing the vapours, and by ingestion (eating or drinking).

By law, herbicides must be used strictly in accordance with the manufacturer’s label. If the plant which you want to use the herbicide on is not on the label, contact Council for permit information.

herbicides should be kept well out of the reach of children, preferably secured in a locked cabinet. They must also be stored in the original labelled container.

USE OF HERBICIDES: SAFETy PRECAUTIOnS

Read the label before opening the container and follow the instructions exactly.

• Wear protective clothing: long sleeves, long pants, sturdy shoes, gloves and eye protection.

• Always wear waterproof gloves. A respirator is advised when mixing or pouring the liquid.

• Do not eat, drink or smoke while using herbicides. Keep children and pets away.

• Wash skin and equipment afterwards. Wash contaminated clothing separately.

• Clean up any spills, including on your skin, with large amounts of water, or by shovelling up contaminated soil and disposing of it at the tip.

TYPES OF HERBICIDES

There are two widely used herbicides licensed for use at home:

• Glyphosate which is sold under various trade names including Roundup® and Zero® (which have different concentrations); and

• Triclopyr which is sold as Tree, Blackberry and Woody Weed Killer (etc).

HOW HERBICIDES WORK

• Glyphosate is a systemic, non-selective herbicide. It must be applied to green leaves or directly to the plant’s sapwood which lies just under the bark.

• Triclopyr is a selective systemic herbicide for woody and broadleaf plants but will not affect grasses. Triclopyr can be applied to green leaves and to bark.

do not apply more than the registered rate of herbicide as this will often be less effective. stronger doses can put the plant into shock, stopping the transfer of herbicide to all parts of the plant.

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State Priority Weed

HERBICIDES, WATERWAYS, AND STEEP LAND

some herbicides have the potential to seriously damage aquatic ecosystems. If you need to remove weeds close to a watercourse (including drains that run only when it is raining) you must seek advice from Council’s Environmental Management section or the department of Primary Industry (dPI). This also applies to the removal of trees from creek banks and very steep land (see Contacts—back cover).

Controlling weeds 2Control of woody weedsCUT AND PAINTsuitable for small to medium sized woody weeds up to 10cm in diameter (or larger shrubs if using a chain saw).

• Clear around the base of the plant.

• Cut the stem horizontally as close to the ground as possible, using secateurs, loppers or a bush saw. Make sure there is no soil on the cut.

• apply undiluted herbicide to the cut stem immediately. squeeze, not squirt, if using an applicator.

• Ensure there is no runoff of herbicide.

• use as little herbicide as possible.

Tips

• Make cuts horizontal to prevent herbicide from running off the stump.

• apply herbicide immediately after cutting (within 20 seconds) before plant cells close and translocation of herbicide ceases.

• If plants resprout, cut and paint the shoots after sufficient regrowth has occurred.

• stem scraping (see p.46) can be very effective on certain woody weeds, including vines and rhizomatous plants.

STEM INJECTION

a method for trees and large shrubs

• use a cordless drill (9mm bit), hammer and chisel, or brace and bit.

• Below any branches, drill or chisel holes round the base of the tree, into the sapwood, angled down at 45˚, and at 5cm intervals.

• Make the holes about 40mm deep.

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CLEAR GROUND AND CUT LOW

APPLy THE HERBICIDE WITHIN SECONDS OF CUTTING

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• Within a few seconds of drilling each hole, fill it with undiluted herbicide.

• use this method only when dead falling branches will not be a safety hazard.

WARnInG: SUCkERInG TREES

Some trees such as Poplars, Tree of Heaven, Coral Trees, Golden Robinia and some willows respond to stress by sending up vigorous new shoots from their roots (suckers). When treating any of these weed trees, do not cut and paint, as this will only encourage suckering. Always drill and inject main trunks, without cutting back in any way, and scrape and paint suckers. Only cut down these trees when you are sure they are completely dead.

Controlling weeds 3Control of seedlings, herbaceous weeds & many grasses• Before starting work, remove and bag

seeds and fruit and place in bin.

• If the weed has a tap root, push a narrow trowel or long knife deep into the ground beside the root. loosen the soil. Work round the root, then work the plant out gently.

• Many plants which will not regrow from their roots (e.g. many grasses) can be crowned. hold leaves and stems together, and use a knife to cut through all the roots below the ‘crown’.

• Plants with bulbs, corms or tubers may need deep digging to ensure complete removal. Bag bulbs, corms and tubers and send to the tip; do not compost.

• see GuaRd aGaInsT EROsIOn on p.47.

STEM AND LEAF WIPING

• This method is suitable for plants with bulbs, tubers, corms or rhizomes.

• First read p.43 about using herbicides.

• Remove and bag any seed or fruit.

• using a weed wiper, start at the base and wipe all the stems and/or leaves with a diluted mix of herbicide.

• If leaves have soil on them, wipers must be regularly washed out.

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CROWNING

GO TO THE WEEDS WEBSITE FOR HOW TO MAKE AND

USE A WEED WIPER

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State Priority Weed

• Take care not to get herbicide on your skin or on non-target plants, and avoid run off into the soil.

SPRAYING

This technique works best on dense areas of weeds where there is little risk of spraying native plants. It works best on small, soft plants. It is seldom effective on larger shrubs or trees.

dilute herbicide and apply as per directions on the label. leave plants in the ground until they die back, which may take weeks or even months.

spraying (even small amounts) is the technique with the highest level of risk. It is always best to consider other options first.

NOTE: Spraying should NOT be used in areas where off-target damage to native plants or other desirable plants is likely to occur.

When to treat with herbicide

• apply herbicide when the plant is actively growing.

• do not apply herbicide when the plant is under stress such as during extreme heat or cold, drought, waterlogging or disease.

• apply herbicide early morning or late afternoon in summer.

• do not spray when wet or windy weather is anticipated.

• For many plants (especially bulbous and suckering plants) the best time to apply herbicide is summer to autumn.

• Treat deciduous plants in late spring or summer, when in full leaf.

Controlling weeds 4Control of groundcovers, vines and scramblersSCRAPE AND PAINT

This method is suitable for vines and scramblers with woody stems. First read p.43 about using herbicides.

• using a knife, and starting from the base, scrape 20–100cm of leafy stem to expose the sapwood below the bark.

• Within seconds, apply herbicide to the scraped area.

Tips

• do not ringbark the stem—scrape about one third of the diameter.

• scrape stems over 1cm in diameter on both sides.

• vine curtains can be cut at chest level, then again at about 30cm. scrape or cut and paint these stumps.

• Blackberry can be cut back to 1m if there are plenty of leaves; then scrape and paint the cut stems.

• Pulling vines out of trees and shrubs may do a lot of damage. They can be left hanging to die.

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THE DIG OPTION

using herbicides to control weedy plants usually causes minimal disturbance and less germination of seedlings, however, if you have the energy and the space in your garden, you can often take the dig option, making absolutely sure that you remove all the parts of the plant from which it can regrow. seedlings and small plants are best pulled out by hand when the soil is moist.

For further information see COnTROl OF sEEdlInGs, hERBaCEOus WEEds & ManY GRassEs p.45.

GUARD AGAINST EROSIONTry to stage weed removal. large areas of exposed soil are an open invitation to weed invasion. They may also cause soils to erode, carrying weed seed into the bush. Mulch bare soil and stabilise it by planting bush-friendly plants into it as soon as possible.

Other local bush invadersThe weeds described in this book are by no means the only plants that threaten our Blue Mountains bushland. Contact Blue Mountains City Council or go to the website: weedsbluemountains.org.au/ for a comprehensive list. Go bush friendly!

TREE PRESERVATIOn ORDER WEED ExEMPTIOnS under Council’s Tree Preservation Order (TPO) residents must apply for a permit to remove any tree over 4m in height and/or with a spread of more than 4m, or any mallee form eucalyptus species, regardless of height.

Exemptions from the TPO allow residents to remove some weed trees without a permit. The list of exempt weed trees can be found in the Blue Mountains dCP 2015, Part C2.3 ‘Weeds of the Blue Mountains’.

These exemptions may not apply if your property is a listed heritage property or is within a Period housing area.

see www.bmcc.nsw.gov.au/sites/default/files/document/files/dCP2015_PartC.pdf, sections C5 and C2.3.1 for more information.

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Wildlife-friendly gardensThe greatest threat to our native wildlife is the loss of habitat, not only through land clearing, but also through weed invasion. Gardens in the Blue Mountains can make an important contribution to the survival of our native fauna and flora.

Plant vegetation at all levels. Place tall, medium and small shrubs and scramblers under trees to attract creatures that feed at different heights. Plant groundcovers and cover exposed areas with mulch. don’t make your garden too tidy—tangles of vegetation and a mess of bark and leaf litter provides niches for a variety of essential creatures. Make sure you leave an adequate fire-safe zone around your house for your protection.

Wildlife-friendly gardens include hollow logs, rocks, banks, tree hollows, and prickly and dense vegetation to help provide nesting sites and shelter and protection from predators.

Tree hollows are essential for many bird and small mammal species. They only occur in large, old trees so it’s particularly important to keep these habitat trees if you’re lucky enough to have one in your garden.

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For nectar and blossom-eaters plant small-flowered, local native grevilleas, banksias, correas, bottlebrushes and Mountain devils. For seed-eaters plant wattles, she-oaks, hakeas, banksias, tea trees and native grasses. For fruit-eaters include lilly pillies, flax lilies, geebungs and Blueberry ash. These plants will also attract a variety of insect-eaters to provide you with free, effortless and ongoing biological control of pests.

a pond of varying depths (e.g. 2–15cm) will satisfy the needs of frogs and lizards, as well as most birds and mammals. For shelter, plant dense vegetation around the pond, such as native grasses, ferns and reeds. Choose the site for a birdbath near an overhganging branch and a prickly dense shrub to enable birds to survey the area and hide if required.

More guidelines for the wildlife-friendly garden: • Keep your garden weed free and plant local species where possible.

• avoid using chemical pest controls (including snail bait) as spiders, native bees, wasps and other insects have essential roles to play.

• Keep pets away from wildlife (bell the cat—two large bells on one side of the collar and one on the opposite side). Keep pets inside at night.

• Encourage children to observe, respect and enjoy wildlife.

anne Bow

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BMCC

Bringing back the bush‘Bringing back the Bush’, by Joan Bradley, outlines the practices she and her sister Eileen developed as they set about restoring weed-invaded bushland in Mosman in the 1960s. These two remarkable women developed the principles of bush regeneration which still form the framework for the rehabilitation of degraded bushland today. It is known as the ‘Bradley Method’. The method places great emphasis on rigorous and timely follow up of initial weed control during the recovery phase.

PRINCIPLES OF BUSH REGENERATION1. Secure the best areas first, where weeds are minimal and

native plants are still dominant. They are the core areas that can then be expanded. As you work towards more degraded areas, the cleared areas will be re-colonised by native plants.

2. Minimise disturbance to the natural conditions: avoid damage to native plants and minimise soil disturbance.

3. Don’t over-clear. Let the rate of regeneration of native plants determine the rate of weed removal; too rapid clearing will lead to massive germination of weeds.

The Blue Mountains Bushcare movement Each month more than 50 groups of Bushcare and landcare volunteers, from lapstone to Mt Wilson, spend a few hours together helping to reverse the damage done to their local bushland by invasive weeds and stormwater runoff. They use the principles of bush regeneration to guide their work: assessing and planning, then staggering the weed removal.

The Bushcare movement fosters a strong sense of community responsibility for the natural environment. The first groups started in 1989. since 1992, Council Bushcare Officers have supported groups with advice, training, materials and insurance. Council’s Bush Backyards network also supports landowners to conserve bushland on their land.

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BMCC

“Weeds are everyone’s responsibility”What is biosecurity?Biosecurity refers to the protection of native plant communities; reducing the risk to human health; and the risk to agricultural production from invasive weeds. see p:6 for how weeds invade.

What has changed? From 1st July 2017, the nsW Government replaced the Noxious Weeds Act 1993 with the Biosecurity Act 2015. under the Biosecurity Act 2015, Blue Mountains City Council, as the local Control authority, has a legal obligation to manage the biosecurity risk posed or likely to be posed by reducing the impacts of Priority Weeds.

What does the Biosecurity Act mean for landowners?under the Biosecurity Act 2015, landowners have a responsibility to control the risk that Priority Weeds on their property pose to neighbouring bushland and properties.

The terminology has changed, for example, the term noxious Weed has been replaced with Priority Weeds or Biosecurity Matter, and weed notices/orders will be issued as Biosecurity directions under the Biosecurity Act 2015.

There are also some changes to targeted invasive plants identified as Priority Weeds compared to the previous noxious Weeds lists.

To find out more about Priority Weeds and access lists relevant to the Blue Mountains go to www.bmcc.nsw.gov.au/weeds

Find further information about the Biosecurity Act?department of Primary Industries website www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/biosecurity/biosecurity-legislation/key-questions-and-answers.

Greater sydney local land services Regional strategic Weed Manage-ment Plan greatersydney.lls.nsw.gov.au/biosecurity/weed-control.

BMCC

ContactsBlue Mountains City CouncilBlue Mountains Council Bushcare 4780 5528BMCC Community Conservation Officer 4780 [email protected]/weedsbluemountains.org.au/Blue Mountains Council main line 4780 5000www.bmcc.nsw.gov.au/

Department of Primary Industry weeds.dpi.nsw.gov.au/www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/biosecurity/weeds

Greater Sydney Local Land Servicesgreatersydney.lls.nsw.gov.au/biosecurity/weed-control

Australian Association of Bush Regenerationwww.aabr.org.au/

Wildplant Rescue Katoombawww.wildplantrescue.org.au/

Blue Mountains Conservation Societywww.bluemountains.org.au/

Wireswww.fauna.org.au/wires-blue-mountains.html

Weeds in Australia www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/invasive/weeds/

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Servicewww.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/conservation-and-heritage/ protecting-biodiversity

locked Bag 10052 Civic Place

Katoomba nsW 2780T 02 4780 5000

E [email protected]

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