Article written and published by Conservancies KZN.
It’s that time of year when we all need to be on the look out for Pompom Weed. It is a highly invasive alien plant which needs to be eradicated. If you know of any locations within your conservancies or areas, please let us know.
Although you might think you are helping by pulling it out, please contact us first. There is a specific method which one must use to eradicate this plant and we will be able to advise you.
Pompom Weed (Campuloclinium macrocephalum)
This plant is a categorised invasive alien species, which aggressively invades indigenous grasslands in South Africa. It is a perennial herb from the Asteraceae family that originates from central and South America. It has dense clusters of pink, fluffy flower heads and leaves which are concentrated on the base of the plant. The light green leaves are lance-shaped, with serrated margins.
Pompom Weed flowers between December and March. It spreads easily by seed but can also regenerate from underground rhizomes.
Perceived threat potential – Very high. It is a severe transformer of grasslands, savanna and wetlands. Invaded agricultural areas can suffer major economic impacts. The plant is poisonous to humans and livestock.
Known cases of invasion – Most prominent in Gauteng but present in all provinces except Western and Northern Cape.
Reproductive capabilities – Copious seed production, regrowth after mowing, glandular trichomes on seeds, possibly containing allelochemicals.
Control methods – Early detection and control is essential to minimise economic impacts. Herbicides known to be efficacious include Brush-off®, Access 240® and Climax®. Biocontrol research is under development; mechanical control is usually ineffective.
Priority Very high.
Practicality and ease of control – Timing of herbicide application and follow-up is important for effective control.
Picture: Supplied