Scientific name: Alternanthera pungens

Description

• Prostrate herb with perennial taproot system and annual above ground growth
• stems produced from a central crown
• often takes root at the nodes
• Short, soft hairs on the stems
• Paired leaves differ in size and leaf margins somewhat wavy
• Small flowers in spring to autumn on spikes 8 to 12 millimetres long and 6 to 10 millimetres wide
• Barbed hairs at the base of the perianth segments, become hardened and form prickles as they age
• Small fruit about 1 millimetre long

Problem

Forms prominent prickles.

Weed status - environmental weed

Environmental weeds are not listed under the Act and there is no regulation for their control.

Although, not declared, these weeds do cause serious environmental harm and where practical, should be managed.

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.