Aussies are being told to lookout for a “tricky” and highly invasive weed making its way into gardens, that can “cling to clothing and animal fur” and spread into paddocks, grasslands and native heathlands.
The Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority (GORCPA) issued a statement earlier this week asking locals in Lorne and Jan Luc, in Victoria’s south, for their “help in targeting” highly invasive South African Weed Orchids.
“We’re asking people in Lorne, particularly on George, Francis and Charles Streets near Queens Park in Lorne, to look out for these plants and remove them as soon as possible,” the authority said.
And while the plea was directed to Victorians, the South African Weed Orchids is also found in South Australia and in parts of Western Australia, largely having taken up residence in “disturbed habitats”, including private properties and nature reserves.
Speaking to Yahoo News Australia, GORCPA Environment Manager Evan Francis explained the nasty species is so hard to control.
“It’s a tricky weed to manage because each plant can produce vast numbers of microscopic seed,” Francis told Yahoo News. “Wind and water can disperse the seeds over many kilometres and they remain viable in the soil for many years.
“The seeds can cling to clothing and animal fur and spread into paddocks, grasslands and native heathlands.”
The weed orchid outcompetes native orchids for resources such as light, nutrients, and space. Source: Victorian Government
Why is the South African weed orchid a problem?
Francis said we “have rangers out every day targeting weeds”, but the “challenge is immense”. “That’s why we put a particular focus on targeting weeds in high-value areas,” he said.
“Protecting our environment is critical so that future generations can enjoy the natural values of the spectacular Great Ocean Road coastline.”
The South African weed orchid poses a significant threat to Australian ecosystems, particularly native orchid populations. Its invasive nature and adaptability allow it to thrive in a variety of disturbed environments, making it challenging to manage.
The weed orchid outcompetes native orchids for resources such as light, nutrients, and space. Its aggressive growth can suppress the diversity and abundance of native flora. It produces thousands of tiny, dust-like seeds that are easily dispersed by wind, water, and animals.
This contributes to its widespread colonisation in new areas. The most effective method involves digging out the entire plant, including the tubers, before it sets seed. This process can be labour-intensive but is essential to prevent seed dispersal.
Love Australia’s weird and wonderful environment? 🐊🦘😳 Get our new newsletter showcasing the week’s best stories.