Alligator Weed

Alligator Weed in flower. Small white papery flower with dark green leaves

Scientific name: Alternanthera philoxeroides

Description

  • Perennial plant, up to 70 centimetres tall in freshwater wetlands and other low lying areas
  • Dark green, paired spear-shaped leaves with obvious veins and smooth edges, opposite along hollow stems
  • Small white ball-shaped papery flowers growing on stalks during summer.

Problem

  • Forms sprawling mats up to 1 metre thick which can blanket the water surface and totally disrupt natural aquatic ecosystems. 

Weed status - restricted matter category 3

Includes weeds, pest animals and noxious fish such as gambusia, dingoes and yellow crazy ants.

You must not distribute this restricted matter.

Due to its potential to cause serious economic, environmental or social harm, these weeds are regulated by Council.

We have an annual inspection program for properties in Logan.

Council has the authority to issue a Biosecurity Order to properties with category three restricted matter.

Control method

Foliar Spray

Herbicide is diluted with water at a specific rate, and sprayed over the foliage to point of runoff.

Most suited to shrubs, grasses and dense vines less than six metres tall.

Manual and Mechanical Removal

Manual control uses hands or hand tools to control weeds.

This can be an effective control as it can minimize soil disturbance and can instantly remove the entire weed.

Mechanical control suits larger infestations, using power tools and machinery to reduce the bulk of the problem.

Mechanical control can include slashing, mowing, dozing, harvesting, and felling.

Herbicide warning

Before using any herbicide always read the label carefully and ensure that the chemical is registered for use on the target weed. All herbicides must be applied strictly in accordance with the directions on the label. 

More information