Garden warning as poisonous invasive species spreads: 'Literally a big problem'
Property owners are being urged to contact authorities if they find a toxic plant described as a "jumbo weed", with gardeners reminded to be on the look out for Moth Vines – and even report a neighbour if they spot them growing over the fence.
Residents in Canberra and surrounding areas are the latest to be warned to keep their eyes peeled for the noxious vine, which spreads quickly and produces leaves and seeds that are poisonous.
"Moth Vines are literally a big problem," the ACT's Environment, Planning and Sustainable Development Directorate told property owners online this week.
"Native to South America, these jumbo weeds can grow up to 10m in length and spread easily through air and water. They contain a sap that's poisonous to humans, and if left uncontained, their long tendrils will suffocate native plants."
The department said residents should report sightings of the invasive plant to its biosecurity team, saying people were even able to report their neighbours and that authorities "will attend private properties" for subsequent inspections.
Speaking to Yahoo News, Dr Carol Booth, Policy Director at the Invasive Species Council of Australia explained the plant was actually introduced a long time ago as a garden plant.
The vine is also sometimes known cruel vine or moth catcher and derives its name from the fact its flowers attract and occasionally trap moths and butterflies with a sucking organ known as a proboscis. "But this is accidental, for the moth vine is not carnivorous," Dr Booth said.
Areas with expansive bushland like the ACT are particularly fertile grounds for the invader.
"This quick-growing vine invades bushland and can smother shrubs and small trees," Dr Booth told Yahoo said.
"The sap, leaves and seeds are poisonous to people and wildlife. The caustic sap can cause skin and eye irritation and occasionally breathing difficulties."
According to NSW Department of Primary Industries, there are records of poultry, cattle and horses being poisoned by the plant but it is not very common.
"Symptoms include: poor balance, staggering, vomiting and abdominal pain," DPI says on its website. "Animals can recover but moth vine can also result in death."
The vine produces a large green fruit that one Aussie mum has previously mistaken for an innocuous 'choko', also known as chayote or alligator pear, which is green vegetable similar to zucchini and can be eaten raw.
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The plant exudes a smelly, milky latex and residents should use gloves when pulling out the vine and cut roots at least 10cm below the ground.
Moth Vine has become established in all states and territories in Australia except the Northern Territory.
The Queensland government also warns on its onilne information page for the species that "everyone has a general biosecurity obligation (GBO) to take reasonable and practical steps to minimise the risks associated with invasive plants under their control."
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