Groundsel Bush
This week's weed is Groundsel Bush. It is classified as a RESTRICTED species. It is a dense, upright, bushy shrub with waxy leaves and a white fluffy flower.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
• Densely branched shrub to 3 meters tall
• Leaves are smooth, wedge-shape, and coarsely toothed
• Male and female flowers on separate plants, male flowers opening late March – slightly earlier than female flowers.
• Seeds are brown with tufts of white hair.
WHY IT'S BAD
• Competes with natives plants and destroys habitat
• Can become abundant along watercourses, in coast woodlands and forest areas
• Competes with pasture species for water and nutrients
• Serious impacts on forestry plantations, particularly in the first year of planting
WHAT TO DO
• This species flowers only once a year (March/April) it is vital to stop it going to flower to help manage long-term infestations and further spread. Treat this plant in mid-March will reduce work in coming years.
• This plant must NOT be given away, sold, or released into the environment. Penalties may apply.
• Please report any sightings of this plant to council for advice on control options.
MORE INFORMATION
https://www.business.qld.gov.au/.../restri.../groundsel-bush