Aussies told to urgently check gardens for 'serious weed' on the move: 'Highly invasive'
Authorities are warning the public this week to be on the lookout for a notorious garden pest that "can grow anywhere" and, if it was to become established, could have serious impacts on horticulture.
The invasive fringed spider flower is quite widespread in the Northern Territory, but Western Australian conservationists said it was recently detected in the state for the first time last year, prompting a renewed plea to the public.
The species, originally from northern Africa, has light purple or pink flowers which are about a centimetre in size, with tightly packed leaves divided into three leaflets with "clearly defined veins". Its stems are covered with fine hairs which can cause irritation upon skin contact.
WA's Department of Primary Industries and Region Development (DPIRD) said it must be removed if spotted, but discouraged residents from doing it themselves.
Instead, residents should contact DPIRD. "This is the first time it has been detected in WA," a spokesperson told Yahoo News Australia. "Fringed spider flower is an invasive pest, which can grow anywhere — posing a threat to agricultural crop production in the tropics."
DPIRD warned Kimberley residents and visitors to the area in particular, encouraging them "to keep an eye out for this serious weed" — and to report observations. First detected in mid-2024 during a routine Northern Australia quarantine survey in the Kununurra area, the invasive weed was later found in Wyndham by DPIRD officers late last year.
DPIRD is now conducting further surveillance to assess whether it has spread to other parts of the state. Regional biosecurity coordinator Lindsay Strange urged residents in Kununurra, Wyndham, Broome, and Halls Creek to assist with surveillance efforts by inspecting their gardens and potted plants for any signs of Fringed Spider Flower and reporting any suspected sightings.
"If you suspect you have a Fringed Spider Flower in your garden, please do not attempt to remove it," Strange advised. "Instead, contact us, and an officer will safely remove and dispose of the plant to prevent it from spreading into landfill."
He explained that the pest plant spreads via seeds, which can be carried through the movement of stockfeed, soil, potted plants, water, animals, vehicles, clothing and footwear.
"If Fringed Spider Flower were to become established, it could pose a threat to horticulture crops due to its highly invasive nature," he said.
Aussies warned over garden pest that can 'never be fully removed'
Property owners warned over harmful weed 'having a bumper season'
Gardeners warned over beautiful plant that is 'extremely toxic' to pets
Anyone who suspects they have fringed spider flower in their garden is asked to report it to DPIRD through the MyPestGuide reporter app or via the Pest and Disease Information Service on 9368 3080.
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