Parthenium
This week's weed is parthenium. It is classified as a RESTRICTED species. It is an annual herb with a deep taproot that invades bare areas and pastures. It is currently in flower.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
- Fast-growing annual herb 1-2m tall
- Pale green, deeply lobed leaves covered in fine soft hairs
- Small, 5 sided, creamy coloured flowers occurring in bunches
- Deep tap-root with erect stem, becoming woody with age
- Prefers alkaline, clay and loam soils but can grow anywhere.
WHY IT'S BAD
- Invades disturbed bare areas and pastures
- Reduces beef production and competes with crops
- Costs Australia's beef industry $16.5 million per year and cropping industries several million dollars per year
- Pollen contains potent allergens that can cause reactions such as dermatitis and hay fever.
LOOKS SIMILAR
- Annual ragweed (also RESTRICTED)
WHAT TO DO
- 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