Fighting back against invasive alien plants – bugweed trees threatening South Africa’s biodiversity
Invasive bugweed are spreading rapidly in Melville and the Koppies, threatening local biodiversity, however Wendy Carstens advises fighting to eradicate these alien invaders and preserving the ecosystem.
The fight against invasive tree species is intensifying at the Melville Koppies, particularly with the alarming rise of the bugweed tree (solanum mauritianum).
This category 1 invader is wreaking havoc in gardens, forests, and vacant lots across the region, presenting a serious threat to indigenous biodiversity.
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Bugweed trees are characterised by broad felty, green leaves that emit a foul odor when crushed. The fluff on the leaves poses a risk as an eye and nasal irritant according to Melville Koppies chairperson Wendy Carstens.
She highlighted that each tree produced clusters of berries that turned yellow when ripe, with each berry containing about 200 seeds. “Considering that each cluster can consist of 10 berries, a single tree can yield up to 2 000 seeds, which are then dispersed by birds, spreading the problem even further.”
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She expressed grave concerns about the impact of these invasive species. “The bugweed tree is just one of many alien invaders threatening our natural heritage. We must act decisively to eradicate them before they choke out our native flora.”
To combat the spread of bugweed trees, experts recommend specific removal techniques.
Carstens added small trees could easily be pulled out, while larger specimens required cutting down at ground level. “After cutting, it is advisable to poison the stump with diesel to prevent regrowth. Additionally, it’s crucial to remove and bag the clusters of berries before they can drop seeds. Regular follow-ups to pull up any new saplings are essential for effective control.”
Carstens urged community members to join the fight. “Every effort counts. By removing these invasive trees, we can help preserve our indigenous natural heritage for future generations.”
For those interested in learning more about the invasive species threatening South Africa’s biodiversity, resources can be found by searching for Invasive Species of SA.
The ‘Tree of Hell’ (ailanthus altissima) is another rapidly spreading pest that has begun to establish a foothold in Melville, underscoring the urgent need for action against these alien invaders. She concluded that in the wake of this biodiversity crisis, community involvement and awareness were more important than ever.
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