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Moggill Creek

Catchment Group

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DECLARED PLANTS FOUND IN THE MOGGILL CREEK CATCHMENT – MARCH 2018

This table includes photographs of listed species where available.  Photographs were taken by Bryan Hacker unless otherwise indicated, mostly in or near the Moggill Creek Catchment.  Brief comments are provided on distinguishing characteristics, published control methods, and status and rating. The table has 5 categories: Trees, Shrubs, Vines, Herbaceous and Understory plants, Aquatic and Semi-aquatic plants. Species included are those recorded for our Catchment which also appear in BCC’s Brisbane Invasive Species Management Plan. National and State status (see Restricted Invasive Plants of Queensland publ. 2016) are also included.

Key to status and rating:
– WONS: Weeds of National Significance List (National – AUS)
– NEAL: National Environmental Alert List (National – AUS)
– C3: A person must not distribute the invasive plant either by sale or gift, or release it into the environment (State – QLD)
– Eradicate: Priority for early detection and eradication (Brisbane City Council – BNE)
– Contain: Priority for containment and reduction (Brisbane City Council – BNE)
– Reduce: Reduce population as part of routine maintenance (Brisbane City Council – BNE)
– Rating: This is a subjective rating of environmental threat or damage on a 1-5 scale, ***** indicating most serious environmental weed

1. TREES (including PALMS)

Species
Detailed view  Scientific and common name  Distinguishing characteristics  Control Status and Rating  Additional local notes
 

Celtis sinensis
Chinese celtis
Deciduous; leaves simple, in a plane, slightly toothed margins
Cut-stump and glyphosate; stem injection; various other herbicides
For more info please see:

  • “Weeds of Southern Queensland” 3rd edition
  • Biosecurity Queensland fact sheet
  • BCC weed identification
AUS:    nil

QLD:
    C3

BNE:
    Reduce

Rating: 
*****

Mainly around creeks.  Seedling regeneration a major concern, requiring hand removal or cut-stump treatment.  

 

A major food source for fruit-eating birds including Pale-headed Rosellas. Replace (lower bank) Ficus coronata and (upper bank) local riparian rainforest species. 

 

Replacement species:  (lower bank) Ficus coronata and (upper bank) local riparian rainforest species.

 


 

Cinnamomum camphora
Camphor Laurel
Leaves simple, with under surface lighter; smell of camphor when  crushed
Cut-stump and glyphosate; stem  injection; various other herbicides

For more info please see: 

  • “Weeds of Southern Queensland ” 3rd edition
  • Biosecurity Queensland fact sheet
  • BCC weed identification
AUS:    nil
QLD:    C3
BNE:    Reduce
Rating: *****
Mainly around creeks.

Important food source for fruit-eating birds and host for Blue Triangle butterfly.

 

Replacement species: Cryptocarya triplivervis (for Blue Triangle butterfly), Syzygium spp. (upper bank, fruit-eating birds), Melaleuca bracteata and other riparian rainforest species.

 

 
 
Corymbia torelliana
Cadaga or cadaghi
Pronounced sock; young leaves red, hairy  Cut-stump and herbicide; stem injection

For more info please see: BCC weed identification
AUS:    nil

QLD:
    nil

BNE:
    Reduce

Rating:
 **
Attracts honeyeaters, lorikeets and bees.

 

Replacement species: Corymbia tesselaris, C. citriodora or local species of Eucalyptus. 

 

 

 

Koelreuteria elegans ssp. formosana
Golden rain tree
Bipinnate leaves; leaflets alternate, not  opposite as in white cedar  Cut-stump and glyphosate; stem injection

For more info please see: 

  • “Weeds of Southern Queensland ” 3rd edition 
  • BCC weed identification

 

AUS:    nil

QLD:
    NEAL

BNE:
    Reduce

Rating:
***

A prolific seeder, spread by birds.   

Replacement species: Cupaniopsis parvifolia or Melia azederach.

Ligustrum lucidum
Broadleaf privet
Leaves opposite, 4-13 cm long Cut-stump and glyphosate; stem injection; various other herbicides

For more info please see: 

 

  • “Weeds of Southern Queensland” 3rd edition
  • Biosecurity Queensland fact sheet
  • BCC weed identification

 

 

AUS:    nil

QLD:
    C3

BNE
:   Contain

Rating:
**
A significant weed tree in the Moggill Creek catchment.  Produces large numbers of seeds, which are dispersed by birds.

Replacement species: Jagera pseudo-rhus or Mallotus philippensis.

Ligustrum sinense
Small-leaved privet
Leaves opposite, 2-7 cm long  Cut-stump and glyphosate; stem injection; various other herbicides

For more info please see: 

 

  • “Weeds of Southern Queensland”  3rd edition
  • Biosecurity Queensland fact sheet
  • BCC weed identification

 

AUS:    nil

QLD:
    C3

BNE:
  Contain

Rating:
*
Less common in the Moggill Creek Catchment than L. lucidum.  Seeds spread by birds.  Tends to occur close to streams.

Replacement species: riparian rainforest species.

Morus alba
White mulberry
Leaves simple, to 11cm x 8cm, bright green Cut-stump or basal bark and herbicide

For more info please see: BCC weed identification
AUD:    nil

QLD:
    nil

BNE:
    Reduce

Rating:
**
Common along waterways and difficult to kill.

Replacement species: riparian rainforest species

Pinus elliottii
Slash pine 
Tree with needle-like, jointed branchlets, appearing like leaves Cut and remove before seeding

For more info please see: BCC weed identification
AUD:    nil

QLD:
    nil

BNE:
    Reduce

Rating:
 *
Seeds spread by wind.

Suggested replacements: Araucaria cunninghamii or Podocarpus elatus.


 
Schefflera actinophylla
Umbrella tree
Leaves on long stalks (petioles) with 7-16 leaflets to 25cm long Cut-stump and herbicide; stem injection

For more info please see: BCC weed identification
AUD:    nil
QLD:    C3
BNE:    Reduce

Rating:
**
Flowers or fruit are enjoyed by lorikeets. Seed spread by birds and other animals.
  Schinus terebinthifolius
Broad-leaved pepper tree
Leaves distinctive, leaflets 5-11, in  pairs with one terminal leaflet Cut-stump and glyphosate; stem injection. Also fluoxypyr

For more info please see: 

 

  • “Weeds of Southern Queensland”  3rd edition
  • Biosecurity Queensland fact sheet
  • BCC weed identification

 

AUD:    nil
QLD:    C3
BNE:    Reduce

Rating:
*
Generally occurs along waterways and tolerant of somewhat saline soils.  Spread by seed-eating birds and mammals.

Replacement species: appropriate local riparian species.

 
Spathodea campanulata
African tulip tree
Leaves opposite, to 50cm long, each with 7-17 leaflets Cut-stump and herbicide; stem injection

For more info please see: 

 

  • Biosecurity Queensland fact sheet
  • BCC weed identification

 

AUD:    nil
QLD:    NEAL
BNE:    Reduce

Rating:
****
Seeds winged and wind-blown.  May sucker from damaged roots.

Suggested replacements: Harpullia pendula or Brachychiton discolor.

Syagrus romanzoffiana
Cocos palm or Queen palm
Palm with fruit 2-3cm long, yellow-orange, borne in large clusters Cut below lowest leaf or at ground level – herbicide not necessary

For more info please see: 

 

  • “Weeds of Southern Queensland”  3rd edition
  • Biosecurity Queensland fact sheet
  • BCC weed identification

 

AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Reduce

Rating:
 *
Fruit toxic to flying foxes.

Replacement species: Planting native palms would be preferred, although none known to be native to the Moggill Creek catchment.

 

 
Tipuana tipu
Tipuana
Leaves alternate, with 9-29 leaflets, these in alternating pairs,
with one terminal leaflet; fruit winged
Cut-stump and glyphosate; stem injection; various herbicides

For more info please see: 

 

  • “Weeds of Southern Queensland”  3rd edition
  • BCC weed identification

 

 

AUD:    nil
QLD:    NEAL
BNE:    Reduce

Rating:
****
Fruit is winged (technically a samara) and wind-blown.

Suggested replacements: Jagera pseudo-rhus, Harpullia pendula or Brachychiton discolor.


2. SHRUBS (including cacti and bamboo)

Species
Detailed view

Scientific name

Distinguishing characteristics

Control

Status and Rating
Additional local notes
Agave spp

Agave
Century plant
Leaves 1-2m long f Basal bark or complete removal

For more info please see: 

 

  • “Weeds of Southern Queensland”  3rd edition
  • Biosecurity Queensland fact sheet
  • BCC weed identification

 

AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Reduce
Rating: **
Several species.  Mature plants seed from a tall flowering stem.

Suggested replacements: replace after removal with appropriate local trees and shrubs.

Images not currently available Baccharis halimifolia
Groundsel bush 
Shrub to 3m tall with wedge-shaped leaves 2.5-5cm long, 1-1.5cm wide Hand-pull; cut stump then foliar spray – glyphosate or various other herbicides

For more info please see: 

 

  • “Weeds of Southern Queensland”  3rd edition
  • Biosecurity Queensland fact sheet
  • BCC weed identification

 

AUD:    nil
QLD:    C3
BNE:    Contain

Rating:
*
Now not common in the Moggill Creek catchment.  Seeds carried by wind.

Suggested replacements: appropriate local shrubs – Dodonaea spp., Hovea acutifolia, Trema aspera.

Cascabela thevetia
Yellow oleander
Captain Cook bush

Milky sap; flowers yellow and bell-shaped, to 5cm diameter Cut-stump and glyphosate; stem injection; various other herbicides

 

For more info please see: 

 

  • “Weeds of Southern Queensland”  3rd edition
  • Biosecurity Queensland fact sheet
  • BCC weed identification

 

AUD:    nil
QLD:    C3
BNE:    Reduce
Rating: ** 
All parts of plant very poisonous.  Seed reportedly spread in garden waste.

Suggested replacements: Acacia spp., Mallotus philippensis, Harpullia pendula.

Cestrum parqui
Green cestrum  
Shrub to 3m, leaves to 12cm long, 2.5cm wide, unpleasant smell when crushed Cut stump or spot spray – glyphosate or various other herbicides

For more info please see: 

 

  • “Weeds of Southern Queensland”  3rd edition
  • Biosecurity Queensland fact sheet
  • BCC weed identification

 

AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Reduce

Rating:
*
Toxic.  Seed spread by birds. Not common in the Moggill Creek catchment.

© Malcolm Frost
Dichrostachys cinerea
Sickle bush
Strong alternate thorns to 8cm long Cut-stump and glyphosate

For more info please see: BCC weed identification 

AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Reduce

Rating:
*
Occurs in the vicinity of Rafting Ground Park.

Flowers


Fruit
Duranta erecta syn, D. repens and D. plumeri
Duranta 
Shrub with light blue flowers and orange berries Cut stump, basal bark or spot spray; various herbicides

For more info please see: 

 

  • “Weeds of Southern Queensland”  3rd edition
  • Biosecurity Queensland fact sheet
  • BCC weed identification

 

AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Reduce

Rating:
*
Seed dispersed by birds.  Commonly grown in local gardens.

Lantana camara
Lantana
Shrub Hand-pull when small; cut stump, basal bark or spot spray; various herbicides

For more info please see: 

 

  • “Weeds of Southern Queensland”  3rd edition
  • Biosecurity Queensland fact sheet
  • BCC weed identification

 

AUD:    WONS
QLD:    C3
BNE:    Reduce

Rating:
*****
Several varieties with different-coloured flowers.

Provides good habitat for small birds and should be replaced progressively, avoiding leaving bare ground.

Suggested replacements: Trema tomentosa, Dodonaea spp., Bursaria spinosa, Hovea acutifolia

Leucaena leucocephala (all ssp.)
Leucaena
Leaves bipinnate, leaflets to 20 mm long Cut-stump and picloram

For more info please see: 

 

  • “Weeds of Southern Queensland”  3rd edition
  • Biosecurity Queensland fact sheet
  • BCC weed identification

 

AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Reduce
Rating: **
Seeds prolifically, bearing large numbers of seed pods, the seeds reportedly carried by small animals.  Seeds should be collected and destroyed as longevity of 7-20 years has been reported.
Images not currently available  Ludwigia longifolia 
Ludwigia
Herbaceous annual shrub to 3m tall Hand-pull, foliar spray

For more info please see: BCC weed identification
AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Reduce
Rating: * 
Distinguished from other local Ludwigia spp. in being an erect hairless annual with alternate leaves 10-20cm long, the fruit prominently 4 angled.
Nerium oleander
Oleander
Well-known shrub, rarely invasive Cut stump or basal bark

For more info please see: BCC weed identification
AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Reduce

Rating:
*
Highly toxic.

Suggested garden replacements: Hymenosporum flavum and Hibiscus heterophyllus.


Seedling


Ochna serrulata
Ochna
Shrub to 2m, narrow shiny leaves, with finely toothed wavy margins Cut stump or basal bark; various herbicides

For more info please see: 

 

  • “Weeds of Southern Queensland”  3rd edition
  • Biosecurity Queensland fact sheet
  • BCC weed identification

 

AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Contain
Rating: ****
A major threat to sclerophyll woodlands in the Moggill Creek catchment.  Difficult to control and several passes are usually necessary.

Good habitat for some birds, notably Whip Birds.  

Suggested replacements: Trema tomentosa, Dodonaea spp., Bursaria spinosa, Hovea acutifolia.  Seed distributed by birds but loses viability within 12 months.
Opuntia stricta
Spiny pest pear
Prickly pear
 
Broad and flattened spiny stems Hand-pull when small (don’t leave on ground or it will re-grow); basal bark/cut stump; foliar spray; various herbicides

For more info please see: BCC weed identification 

AUD:    WONS
QLD:    C3
BNE:    Reduce

Rating:
*
Uncommon in the Moggill Creek catchment.

Phyllostachys aurea
Phyllostachys aurea and P. nigra
Golden Bamboo
Black Bamboo
Loosely clumping, stems to 7m Cut stump and glyphosate; complete removal

For more info please see: 

 

  • Biosecurity Queensland fact sheet
  • BCC weed identification

 

AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Reduce

Rating:
***
Purposefully planted on a number of properties.  Flowering is very rare and plants form dense clumps through producing underground rhizomes.

Fruit
Psidium guajava
Yellow guava
Opposite leaves to 15cm long Cut-stump and herbicide; stem injection

For more info please see: BCC weed identification 
AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Reduce
Rating: ***
Introduced as a fruit tree but now widely regarded as a weed.  Seeds distributed by fruit-eating birds and flying foxes.

Suggested replacements: Harpullia pendula, Jagera pseudorhus.

Raphiolepis indica
Common Indian hawthorn 
Shrub with clusters of pinkish flowers c. 12 mm across Cut stump, then foliar spray or basal bark

For more info please see: BCC weed identification
AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Reduce

Rating:
*
Not common in the district.

Seed distributed by seed-eating birds.

Suggested replacements: Trema tomentosa, Dodonaea spp., Bursaria spinosa, Hovea acutifolia.

Ricinus communis
Castor oil plant
Palmate leaves to 60cm across, hollow stems Hand-pull seedlings; control before seeding; glyphosate, 2,4D or triclopyr

For more info please see: 

 

  • “Weeds of Southern Queensland”  3rd edition
  • Biosecurity Queensland fact sheet
  • BCC weed identification

 

AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Reduce

Rating:
***
Mainly found along waterways.  When ripe, fruit explodes, throwing the seed several meters.  Leaves and seeds toxic.

Suggested replacement for flood-prone areas: Lomandra hystrix; Casuarina cunninghamiana

Senna pendula var. glabrata
Easter cassia
Leaves with 3-5 pairs of leaflets, no terminal leaflet; leaflet margins pallid; pods c. 6mm diameter Hand-pull young plants; collect any ripe seed for disposal; cut stump and glyphosate or fluroxypyr

For more info please see: 

 

  • “Weeds of Southern Queensland”  3rd edition
  • Biosecurity Queensland fact sheet
  • BCC weed identification

 

AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Reduce

Rating:
**
Previously listed as Cassia coluteoides.  Flowers spring and autumn (Easter).

Suggested replacements: Senna sophera and Senna acclinis for Common Migrant and Lemon Migrant butterflies

Senna septemtrionalis
Arsenic bush
Leaves with 3-5 pairs of leaflets, no terminal leaflet; leaflets acutely pointed Hand-pull young plants; collect any ripe seed for disposal; cut stump

For more info please see: BCC weed identification 

AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Reduce

Rating:
*
Previously listed as Cassia floribunda.  No direct evidence of toxicity.  Flowers Autumn.

Suggested replacements: Senna sophera and Senna acclinis for Common Migrant and Lemon Migrant butterflies.

 

Solanum mauritianum
Wild tobacco tree
Shrub to 4m, leaves to 30cm, densely covered with felty hairs Cut stump or basal bark; various herbicides

For more info please see: 

 

  • “Weeds of Southern Queensland”  3rd edition
  • Biosecurity Queensland fact sheet
  • BCC weed identification

 

AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Reduce

Rating:
***
Seeds spread by seed-eating birds. Poisonous to stock; flowers Autumn to Spring. 
Solanum torvum
Devil’s fig
Stem with broad-based spines; leaves large with about 7 broad lobes Cut stump or basal bark

For more info please see: BCC weed identification

AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Reduce

Rating:
***
Flowers mainly in Spring.

Seed spread by fruit-eating birds.

 

Tecoma stans

Yellow bells
Shrub with 3-13 hairless leaflets; flowers yellow Hand-pull young plants; collect seed for disposal; cut stump and glyphosate

For more info please see: 

 

  • “Weeds of Southern Queensland”  3rd edition
  • Biosecurity Queensland fact sheet
  • BCC weed identification

 

AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Reduce

Rating:
**
Seed is wind-dispersed.
3. VINES
Species
Detailed view

Scientific name 

Distinguishing characteristics 

Control

 


Status and Rating
Additional local notes
 

 

Anredera cordifolia
Madiera vine 
Fleshy-leaved vine, tubers in leaf axils Cut stump and/or scrape stem and  herbicide, hand weed with care, remove all material.  Cut stems continue to survive in the canopy so stem scraping often preferred.  Several herbicides listed.

For more info please see: 

 

  • “Weeds of Southern Queensland”  3rd edition
  • Biosecurity Queensland fact sheet
  • BCC weed identification

 

AUD:    WONS
QLD:    C3
BNE:    Reduce

Rating:
*****
Very invasive – a priority for removal where it occurs.

Propagates through tubers formed in leaf axils.

Very rarely reported to produce seed.

Cut stems continue to survive in the canopy so stem scraping often preferred.

Araujia sericifera and A. hortorum
White moth plant
Leaves triangular, opposite; sap milky Spot spray, fluoxypyr

For more info please see: 

 

  • “Weeds of Southern Queensland”  3rd edition
  • Biosecurity Queensland fact sheet
  • BCC weed identification

 

AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Contain

Rating:
**
Less frequently noted in the Moggill Creek catchment than other exotic vines.

Aristolochia elegans
Dutchman’s pipe 
Vine with broad, rather heart-shaped leaves Hand-pull; cut stump or basal bark and  herbicide

For more info please see: BCC weed identification
AUD:    nil
QLD:    C3
BNE:    Contain
Rating: ***
Toxic to larvae of the Richmond Birdwing butterfly.

Leaves are similar to those of the native Stephania japonica (tape vine).

Asparagus africanus
Climbing asparagus
Climbing prickly stems Dig out; several herbicides recommended.

For more info please see: 

 

  • “Weeds of Southern Queensland”  3rd edition
  • Biosecurity Queensland fact sheet
  • BCC weed identification

 

AUD:    WONS
QLD:    C3
BNE:    Contain
Rating:*****
Reproduces by seed, which is spread by birds and probably by other animals. 

If digging out, remove entire crown or hook into a low fork of a tree to prevent re-establishment.

Caesalpinia decapetala
Wait-a-while
Mysore thorn
Stems and leaves prickly, leaves bipinnate, leaflets 1-2 cm long, in pairs Remove seedlings by hand; metsulfuron-methyl only registered herbicide

For more info please see: 

 

  • “Weeds of Southern Queensland”  3rd edition
  • Biosecurity Queensland fact sheet
  • BCC weed identification

 

AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Reduce
Rating: ***
Found along riparian areas.  Stems and leaves prickly.  Local (uncommon) native C. scortechinii has pods 3-5cm long, cf. 6-10cm long in C. decapetala.
Cardiospermum grandiflorum
Balloon vine
Leaves distinct, with lobed leaflets; stems hairy Hand-pull; cut stump and  herbicide; several herbicides listed

For more info please see: 

 

  • “Weeds of Southern Queensland”  3rd edition
  • Biosecurity Queensland fact sheet
  • BCC weed identification

 

AUD:    nil
QLD:    C3
BNE:    Reduce

Rating:
****
A major weed of riparian areas.  Fruit and seed mostly wind-dispersed.

Leaves somewhat similar to those of the common native vine Cayratia clematidea (slender grape).

Desmodium uncinatum
Silver leaf, Desmodium or Velcro plant
Leaves with 3 leaflets, pale towards mid-rib; leaves and stems sticky owing to hooked hairs
Hand-pull; dig out tap root

For more info please see: BCC weed identification
AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Reduce

Rating:
***
Readily distinguished by its ‘sticky’ leaves, stems and pods. Fruit dispersed by passing animals.

Suggested replacements: locally native understorey plants.


© Adrian Webb


Tubers

Dolichandra unguis-cati
Cats claw creeper 
Leaves opposite, each with 2 leaflets and 3 tiny ‘claws’ between Foliar spray / cut stump with dicamba, picloram or glyphosate (dicamba more effective).

For more info please see: 

 

  • “Weeds of Southern Queensland”  3rd edition
  • Biosecurity Queensland fact sheet
  • BCC weed identification

 

AUD:    WONS
QLD:    C3
BNE:    Contain

Rating:
*****
A major threat to forest ecosystems in the Moggill Creek catchment.

Landowners encouraged to control young plants before they take over and to prevent flowering or established colonies by cutting and poisoning ascending stems.

Ipomoea cairica
Mile a minute
Twining vine, the alternate leaves with 5 or 7 prominent lobes Hand pull, cut stump or stem scrape plus herbicide, several listed

For more info please see: 

 

  • Biosecurity Queensland fact sheet
  • BCC weed identification

 

AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Reduce

Rating:
****
Widespread in the Moggill Creek catchment along riparian areas.

Mostly spreads vegetatively.

Ipomoea indica
Morning glory
Twining vine, the alternate leaves broadly heart-shaped, sometimes with 3 or 5 lobes Hand pull, cut stump or stem scrape plus herbicide – several listed

For more info please see: 

 

  • “Weeds of Southern Queensland”  3rd edition
  • Biosecurity Queensland fact sheet
  • BCC weed identification

 

AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Reduce

Rating:
****
Reproduces vegetatively.  Leaves quite similar to those of the locally common native Ipomoea plebeia (bellvine), which has white flowers c. 1cm long (cf. blue flowers 5-8cm long in I. indica).
Images not currently available Lonicera japonica
Japanese honeysuckle 
Vine with leaves to 75mm long in opposite pairs Cut stump or foliar spray;  glyphosate or picloram

For more info please see: 

 

  • “Weeds of Southern Queensland”  3rd edition
  • Biosecurity Queensland fact sheet
  • BCC weed identification

 

AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Reduce
Rating: *
Not a major weed in the Moggill Creek catchment.

Macroptilium atropurpureum
Siratro 
Leaves with 3 leaflets up to 7 cm long, lower leaflets with pronounced lobe Hand pull; foliar spray several herbicides listed

For more info please see: 

 

  • “Weeds of Southern Queensland”  3rd edition
  • Biosecurity Queensland fact sheet
  • BCC weed identification

 

AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Reduce

Rating:
***
Replace with locally native grasses and other understorey plants.  Seed likely to remain viable in soil for several years.
Macrotyloma axillare
Perennial horse gram
Vine with yellow pea flowers in leaf axils Cut stump then foliar spray

For more info please see: BCC weed identification

AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Reduce

Rating:
***
Seed likely to remain viable in soil for several years.

Suggested replacements: locally native grasses and other understorey plants.
Neonotonia wightii

Glycine
Vine, leaves with 3 leaflets to 15 cm long, 12cm broad Hand-pull, cut stump and  glyphosate; spot spray with dicamba or picloram + triclpyr

For more info please see: 

 

  • “Weeds of Southern Queensland”  3rd edition
  • Biosecurity Queensland fact sheet
  • BCC weed identification

 

AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Reduce
Rating:*****
A major threat, primarily along riparian areas in the Moggill Creek catchment.  Note that several native species of the genus Glycine occur in the Moggill Creek catchment.

Leaves are much smaller than those of N. wightii and they are not weedy.

Seeds may remain viable in soil for ten or more years.


Fruit

 

Passiflora suberosa
Corky passion vine
Climber with corky bark towards base of stem Hand pull or cut stump and foliar spray with gluphosate

For more info please see:

 

  • Biosecurity Queensland fact sheet
  • BCC weed identification

 

AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Reduce
Rating: *
Flowers 1-2cm diameter, cf >6cm diameter in local natives P. herbertiana and P. aurantia.

Also 2 glands halfway along petiole (cf. glands just below blade in natives)


Seedling

 ©  Val Price
Solanum seaforthianum
Brazilian nightshade 
Vine with alternate leaves partly or completely divided to midrib with 3-9 lobes; flowers lavender-coloured Hand-pull or cut stump and  herbicide

For more info please see: BCC weed identification

AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Reduce
Rating: ***
Seed spread by fruit-eating birds.  Seedlings are frequently found in the Moggill Creek Catchment, suggesting that this species is an increasing threat.
Syngonium spp.

Arrowhead vine
Vine Stem scrape or cut stump and foliar spray glyphosate or fluroxypyr

For more info please see:

 

  • Biosecurity Queensland fact sheet
  • BCC weed identification

 

AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Reduce
Rating: *
Propagates largely vegetatively and generally found in more settled areas of the Moggill Creek catchment.
Thunbergia alata
Black-eyed Susan
Slender-stemmed vine with bright orange flowers with black throat Hand pull, foliar spray

For more info please see: BCC weed identification

AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Reduce
Rating: *
Reproduces vegetatively and by seed.

Suggested replacements: locally native understorey plants.

4. HERBACEOUS AND UNDERSTOREY PLANTS
Species
Detailed view 

Scientific name 

Distinguishing characteristics 

Control

Status and Rating
Additional local notes
   Ageratina riparia

Mistflower
Sprawling plant; opposite leaves with serrated margins; occurs close to streams Hand pull before seeding; several herbicides listed

For more info please see: 

 

  • “Weeds of Southern Queensland”  3rd edition
  • Biosecurity Queensland fact sheet
  • BCC weed identification

 

AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Reduce
Rating: ***
A significant threat along waterways, tolerating quite heavy shade.

Suggested replacements: locally native understorey plants including Lomandra hystrix.

Alternanthera pungens
Khaki weed 
Creeping, somewhat hairy stems Foliar spray; several herbicides listed

For more info please see: 

 

  • “Weeds of Southern Queensland”  3rd edition
  • BCC weed identification

 

AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Reduce
Rating: *
A weed of disturbed areas.  Reproduces mainly by seed.

Suggested replacements: locally native herbaceous and understorey plants.

Ambrosia artemisiifolia

Annual ragweed
Leaves to 10cm long and deeply divided; pollen may cause health problems Hand pull before seeding; several herbicides listed

For more info please see: 

 

  • “Weeds of Southern Queensland”  3rd edition
  • Biosecurity Queensland fact sheet
  • BCC weed identification 

 

AUD:    nil
QLD:    C3
BNE:    Reduce

Rating:
***
Can cause allergic reactions.  Seeds prolifically in autumn.

Removal before seeding effective in terms of long-term control.

Argemone ochroleuca 
Prickly poppy or Mexican poppy
Prickly herb to 1m tall; flowers pale yellow to 7cm diameter Hand pull before seeding; several herbicides listed

For more info please see: 

 

  • “Weeds of Southern Queensland”  3rd edition
  • BCC weed identification
AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Reduce

Rating:
*

Arundo donax

Giant reed
Rhizomatous perennial grass to 6m tall, with large, open flower heads Cut stump followed by aquatic-approved herbicide recommended by Florabase (WA)

For more info please see: 

 

  • “Weeds of Southern Queensland”  3rd edition
  • BCC weed identification

 

AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Reduce

Rating:
****
Mainly along waterways, including lower Moggill Creek.

Clumps propagate vegetatively and reproduction also by seed.

Like Pennisetum purpureum, this species is also likely to provide wildlife habitat that is difficult to replace.

Asclepias curassavica
Red-head cotton bush
Erect perennial herb to 1m tall; milky sap; flowers yellowish to orange Hand pull or dig out; foliar spray

For more info please see: BCC weed identification

AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Reduce

Rating:
*
Uncommon in the Moggill Creek catchment.

Reproduces by seed.


Asparagus aethiopicus

Asparagus aethiopicus
Asparagus aethiopicus ‘Sprengeri’

Ground asparagus
Long, arching prickly stems from a central point Dig out; several herbicides recommended

For more info please see: 

 

  • Biosecurity Queensland fact sheet
  • BCC weed identification

 

AUD:    WONS
QLD:    C3
BNE:    Contain
Rating:***
Reproduces by seed, which is spread by birds and probably by other animals.

If digging out, remove entire crown or hook into a low fork of a tree to prevent re-establishment.


Bryophyllum  daigremontianum x B. tubiflorum
Bryophyllum x houghtonii

Mother of millions
Erect stems with fleshy leaves producing tiny propagules along margins Hand pull taking care to bag entire plants for safe disposal; several herbicides listed

For more info please see: 

 

  • “Weeds of Southern Queensland”  3rd edition
  • Biosecurity Queensland fact sheet
  • BCC weed identification

 

AUD:    nil
QLD:    C3
BNE:    Reduce

Rating:
*****
Toxic to livestock. Several forms, including the similar Bryophyllum delagoense, occur in the Moggill Creek catchment.

Difficult to eliminate.

Bryophyllum pinnatum
Live plant
Resurrection plant
 
Erect, to 1m tall; leaves succulent, upper leaves with 3-5 leaflets   Hand pull taking care to bag entire plants for safe disposal

For more info please see:
 BCC weed identification
AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Reduce

Rating:
**
Toxic to livestock
Callisia fragrans
Purple succulent
Prostrate herbaceous plant spreading by means of long stolons. Leaves may be green or purple.
Hand pull, removing all of the plant. Putting in a heap and covering with black plastic for several months is effective.

For more info please see: BCC weed identification

AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Reduce

Rating:
***
Chloris gayana

Rhodes grass
Stoloniferous grass with 8-17 spikes at tip of flowering stem.  The native C. ventricosa is similar but <9 spikes and narrower leaves (3mm cf 2-9mm) Dig out by hand or foliar spray

For more info please see:
 BCC weed identification
AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Reduce

Rating:
***
An important pasture species.

Suggested replacements: In bushland, control before seeding and replace with locally native grasses and understorey plants.

Chloris virgata
Feathertop, Rhodes grass 
A tufted grass to c. 1m with distinctive flower heads Hand pull before seeding

For more info please see: BCC weed identification
AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Reduce

Rating:
*
A minor weed but quite common along roadsides.
Dyschoriste depressa
Dyschoriste
Opposite leaves; flowers in leaf axils; extremely invasive Foliar spray, selective herbicide

For more info please see: BCC weed identification
AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Contain

Rating:
*****
A major weed along waterways also tolerant of full sun and mowing in a lawn situation.

Reproduces vegetatively and by seed.

Images not currently available Impatiens spp.
Balsam
(Busy Lizzie)
Herb, mostly annual Hand pull before flowering

For more info please see: BCC weed identification

AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Reduce

Rating:
*
Uncommon in the Moggill Creek catchment.

Lantana montevidensis

Creeping lantana
Herbaceous plant with creeping stems, rooting at intervals, forming dense mats Foliar spray, several herbicides listed

For more info please see: 

 

  • “Weeds of Southern Queensland”  3rd edition
  • BCC weed identification

 

AUD:    nil
QLD:    C3
BNE:    Reduce

Rating:
****
A serious threat to the understorey in eucalypt woodlands.

Megathyrsus maximus
Guinea grass,
Green panic
Several cultivars established, mostly tufted, but cv. Embu is stoloniferous (see photos) Dig out or hand pull for small infestations before seeding; foliar spray

For more info please see: BCC weed identification

AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Reduce

Rating:
*****
An important pasture species. All cultivars have large flower heads with branches at base in whorls – distinguishing them from less robust local native species of Panicum.

Embu reproduces vegetatively (associated with creek floods).

Melinis minutiflora
Molasses grass 
Invasive grass with distinctive aroma; purplish flower heads in late Autumn Dig out or hand pull for small infestations; spot-spray with glyphosate

For more info please see: 

 

  • Biosecurity Queensland fact sheet
  • BCC weed identification

 

AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Reduce

Rating:
****
A major understorey threat in eucalypt woodlands in the Moggill Creek catchment.

Suggested replacements: Replace progressively with local native grasses and understorey species.

Nephrolepis cordifolia
Fishbone fern
Readily identifiable fern May be controlled by hand-pulling in small areas

For more info please see: BCC weed identification

AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Reduce

Rating:
**
A local native sometimes regarded as a weed.

Suggested replacements: native grasses.

Paspalum notatum
Bahia grass
Perennial stoloniferous grass; flower heads to 75cm, with two terminal racemes (branches) 

Common lawn weed 

Dig out or foliar spray

For more info please see: BCC weed identification
AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Reduce

Rating:
**
A common lawn weed but not common in environmental areas.

Reproduces by seed.

Pennisetum purpureum
Elephant grass
Tufted grass growing to a height of 4m; cylindrical flower heads to 30cm long in Autumn Dig out or foliar spray 

For more info please see: 

 

  • Biosecurity Queensland fact sheet
  • BCC weed identification

 

AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Reduce

Rating:
*****
Local infestations believed to be a sterile hybrid known as Bana Grass

Suggested replacements: Replace progressively with Lomandra hystrix

Rivina humilis
Coral berry
Well-branched shrub to c. 1m, flowers when young, producing red berries

Easily pulled out by hand

Hand pull before seeding (collect fruit for disposal); fluoxypyr or glyphosate

For more info please see: 

 

  • “Weeds of Southern Queensland”  3rd edition
  • Biosecurity Queensland fact sheet
  • BCC weed identification

 

AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Reduce

Rating:
***
A very shade tolerant species spreading rapidly.

Suggested replacements: locally native understorey plants.

Ruellia tweediana

Ruellia
Rhizomatous perennial in riparian areas to c. 1m tall, with narrow opposite leaves and purple flowers to c. 6cm diameter Difficult to control

For more info please see: BCC weed identification
AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Reduce

Rating:
***
A significant threat along waterways.

On a small scale cut stump method taking care to protect native Persicaria spp. can be effective.

Sansevieria trifasciata
Mother-in-law’s tongue
Rhizomatous perennial with erect leaves to c. 1m long Dig out and remove entire plant including leaves

For more info please see: BCC weed identification
AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Reduce

Rating:
***
A weed of dry areas; probably spread by disposal of garden rubbish.

Don’t leave excised leaves on ground as they can sprout plantlets along the margins.

Images not currently available Schizachyrium microstachyum
Little bluestem
Grass Foliar spray

For more info please see: BCC weed identification

AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Special
     Investigation
List

Rating:
*
Uncommon
Senecio madagascariensis
Fireweed
Yellow-flowered annual or short-lived perennial daisy, each flower head with about 12 petals Dig out isolated plants before seeding; foliar spray, several selective herbicides recommended

For more info please see: 

 

  • “Weeds of Southern Queensland”  3rd edition
  • Biosecurity Queensland fact sheet
  • BCC weed identification

 

AUD:    WONS
QLD:    C3
BNE:    Reduce

Rating:
*
A quick-growing plant which seeds prolifically.

Toxic to livestock.

Setaria sphacelata
South African pigeon grass 
Perennial grass to 180cm tall; flower heads cylindrical, with c. 1mm bristles Dig out isolated plants before seeding

For more info please see: BCC weed identification
AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Reduce

Rating:
*
A pasture species not usually frequent in bushland.

Suggested replacements: Replace with locally native grasses and understorey shrubs.

Images not currently available Solanum nigrum
Blackberry nightshade
Shrub to 1.25m; star-shaped flowers

Fruit purple-black when ripe

Dig out; foliar spray – dicamba or fluroxypyr

For more info please see: 

 

  • “Weeds of Southern Queensland”  3rd edition
  • BCC weed identification

 

 

AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Reduce
Rating: **
Can be toxic.

Suggested replacements: Replace with locally native understorey shrubs.

Sphagneticola trilobata
Singapore daisy
Rhizomatous perennial, glossy leaves, yellow daisy flowers Foliar spray, metsulfuron methyl

For more info please see: 

 

  • “Weeds of Southern Queensland”  3rd edition
  • Biosecurity Queensland fact sheet
  • BCC weed identification

 

AUD:    nil
QLD:    C3
BNE:    Reduce

Rating:
****
A major weed along riparian areas and difficult to control.  Mainly reproduces vegetatively.

Sporobolus pyramidalis

Giant rats tail grass

Narrow leaved tussock grass, pyramidal flower head Spot spray, glyphosate or flupropanate

For more info please see: 

 

  • “Weeds of Southern Queensland”  3rd edition
  • Biosecurity Queensland fact sheet
  • BCC weed identification

 

AUD:    nil
QLD:    C3
BNE:    Reduce

Rating:
***
Not palatable to livestock. Several Sporobolus species occur in the Moggill Creek catchment, mostly exotic.

Suggested replacements: in bushland areas replace with locally native grasses.

Tagetes minuta

Stinking roger
Annual with erect stems and deeply divided leaves Hand pull or foliar spray

For more info please see: BCC weed identification

AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Reduce

Rating:
*
A minor annual roadside weed in the Moggill Creek catchment.
Tithonia diversifolia
Japanese sunflower 
Erect stems to 3m tall; yellow daisy-like flowers to 10cm wide; leaves with 3-7 pointed lobes Foliar spray – several selective herbicides listed

For more info please see: 

 

  • “Weeds of Southern Queensland”  3rd edition
  • BCC weed identification

 

AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Reduce

Rating:
**
Generally occurs in sunny situations.

Suggested replacements: replace with locally native shrubs and small trees.

Tradescantia fluminensis
Wandering Jew
Trailing ground-cover plant with white flowers, 3 petals (easily confused when not in flower with the native Commelina cyanea) Hand pull and collect for disposal (with care); spot spray fluroxypyr or treat with picloram

For more info please see: 

 

  • Biosecurity Queensland fact sheet
  • BCC weed identification 

 

AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Reduce

Rating:
**
Tolerant of heavy shade and difficult to control.
Tradescantia zebrina

Zebrina
Trailing ground-cover plant with bi-coloured purple and grey-green leaves Hand pull and collect for disposal (with care); spot spray with fluroxypyr

For more info please see: 

 

  • Biosecurity Queensland fact sheet
  • BCC weed identification

 

AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Reduce

Rating:
**
Generally spreads vegetatively.
Urochloa decumbens

Signal grass
Grass with flower heads to 1.5m; flower heads with several branches tending to be on one side Dig out isolated plants before seeding; foliar spray

For more info please see: BCC weed identification
AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Reduce

Rating:
*****
A major weed species in eucalypt woodlands in the Moggill Creek catchment.

Unpalatable to horses.

5. AQUATIC AND SEMI-AQUATIC


Species

Detailed view 

Scientific name 

Distinguishing characteristics
 

Control

Status and Rating
Additional local notes
Egeria densa
Elodea
Dense water weed
Remove completely

For more info please see: BCC weed identification

AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Contain
Rating:  **
Images not currently available 
Eichhornia crassipes

Water hyacinth
Floating water plant with purple flowers Foliar spray – several herbicides listed

For more info please see: 

 

  • “Weeds of Southern Queensland”  3rd edition
  • Biosecurity Queensland fact sheet
  • BCC weed identification

 

AUD:    WONS
QLD:    C3
BNE:    Contain

Rating:
**
On a small scale, hand removal recommended.
Gymnocoronis spilanthoides
Senegal tea
Semi-aquatic plant rooting in ground with stems extending over water; leaves opposite; white pompom flowers Herbicides listed for use in aquatic areas

For more info please see: 

 

  • “Weeds of Southern Queensland”  3rd edition
  • Biosecurity Queensland fact sheet
  • BCC weed identification

 

AUD:    NEAL
QLD:    C3
BNE: Eradicate

Rating:
  ***
Suggested replacements: Lomandra hystrix
Heteranthera reniformis
Kidney leaf mud plantain 
Aquatic plant that can form dense mats

For more info please see: 

 

  • NSW Weedwise website
  • Biosecurity Queensland fact sheet

 

AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Reduce
Rating: *
Hygrophila costata
Hygrophila  
Herbaceous, semi-aquatic; leaves in opposite pairs; flowers white, in leaf axils Remove by hand; foliar spray glyphosate or metsulfuron-methyl

For more info please see: 

 

  • “Weeds of Southern Queensland”  3rd edition
  • Biosecurity Queensland fact sheet
  • BCC weed identification

 

AUD:    nil
QLD:    C3
BNE: Eradicate
Rating:  *
Suggested replacements: Lomandra hystrix
Myriophyllum aquaticum
Parrot’s feather
Aquatic plant with stems creeping and rooting, also forming dense mats on water surface; leaves short, in whorls Remove by hand

For more info please see: BCC weed identification
AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Reduce

Rating:
**
Images not currently available  Nymphaea caerulea ssp.
zanzibarensis


Water lily
Blue-flowered water lily Complete removal

For more info please see: BCC weed identification
AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Reduce

Rating:
*
Images not currently available   Pistia stratiotes
Water lettuce 
Free floating aquatic Remove by hand; several herbicides listed

For more info please see: 

 

  • “Weeds of Southern Queensland”  3rd edition
  • Biosecurity Queensland fact sheet
  • BCC weed identification

 

AUD:    nil
QLD:    C3
BNE:    Contain
Rating: *
Sagittaria platyphylla
Saggitaria
Herbaceous, semi-aquatic; leaves oval, to 25cm long; flowers with 3 white petals Spot spray with glyphosate

For more info please see: 

 

  • Biosecurity Queensland fact sheet
  • BCC weed identification

 

AUD:   WONS
QLD:   C3
BNE:   Eradicate
Rating: **
Salvinia molesta
Salvinia
Floating aquatic fern Several herbicides listed

For more info please see: 

 

  • “Weeds of Southern Queensland”  3rd edition
  • Biosecurity Queensland fact sheet
  • BCC weed identification

 

AUD:    WONS
QLD:    C3
BNE:    Contain

Rating:
****
Colocasia esculenta
Taro,
Black Stem Taro,
Black Stem Elephant’s Ear 
Herbaceous, semi-aquatic plant with large leaves carried on long petioles Cut stump or foliar spray – avoid spraying close to water

For more info please see: BCC weed identification

AUD:    nil
QLD:    nil
BNE:    Reduce

Rating:
**
Common along waterways in the Moggill Creek catchment

 

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ABN 57 981 459 029
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