Beware the Madagascan Fireweed

Territory And Municipal Services are warning against the invasion of Madagascan Fireweed:

Canberrans are being urged to be on the lookout for a new incursion of weed species that has recently been identified in the ACT – Madagascan Fireweed (Senecio madagascariensis).

“While the weed is commonly found in the surrounding NSW region, this is the first serious incursion of Madagascan Fireweed in the ACT,” said Steve Taylor, Senior Invasive Weeds Officer, ACT Parks and Conservation Service.

“The first plant was spotted by a member of the public on the Monaro Highway just outside the ACT border and since then plants have been spotted at two other locations in the ACT. These plants have been destroyed.

“Rangers will proactively monitor the areas in which the plants were found.

“Madagascan Fireweed is a small multi-stemmed and vigorous flowering daisy-like plant with numerous bright yellow daisy flowers. Like other daisies, the weed produces fluffy wind borne seeds. Some plants can produce tens of thousands of seeds.”

Mr Taylor said a rapid response to uncover and control the weed will save the ACT significant expenditure in future weed control.

“Eradicating Madagascan Fireweed swiftly will ensure continued protection of our valued native plant communities and grazing lands.

If you see the weed they ask you take a photo and call 13 22 81.

[Photo Courtesy Wikipedia]