Australians are being warned about an invasive tree species and “major weed” that is discovering its approach into gardens across the nation. Experts say whereas the tree is “lovely” wanting, it may really pose a critical risk to the well being of each animals and people — and may even lead to paralysis.
This week, a West Aussie gardener took to social media to query what precisely the species they discovered of their backyard is. “Anyone able to assist with identifying this?” the WA native wrote. Quickly, individuals recognized the plant as robinia, also referred to as black locust — a “horrible, aggressive weed” that is “very difficult to get rid of”.
Speaking to Yahoo News Australia, Invasive Species Council’s Dr Carol Booth confirmed the identification and warned Australians from planting them of their gardens. “Black locust is a major weed and, lovely though it is, definitely not a tree we should plant in Australia,” she advised Yahoo. “It can take over native habitats by forming thickets in grasslands and grassy woodlands, and along creeks and rivers.
“It will be tough to regulate as a result of it grows quickly and may sucker from its roots.”
Chemical treatment required to remove ‘aggressive’ invasive tree
Booth said the remnants of the plant can remain “years after being handled”, meaning it can grow back. “It requires chemical therapy, and generally greater than as soon as. It’s additionally toxic to livestock and people,” she warned.
In Australia, robinia is considered hazardous because it’s both toxic and highly invasive. The plant contains harmful compounds in its bark, leaves, and seeds, which can cause serious health issues in humans and animals if ingested.
Its rapid growth and spread, through seeds and root suckers, allow it to outcompete native plants and disrupt ecosystems. Robinia alters soil composition by adding nitrogen, which can harm native species adapted to Australia’s naturally low-nitrogen soils. Its resilience to control measures, due to its strong root system and tendency to re-sprout, makes managing its spread challenging.
If ingested by a human, robinia can causing symptoms like nausea, weakness, and even paralysis in severe cases. Online, people shared their experiences with the plant.
“Horrible, aggressive weeds which might be very tough to do away with as soon as they begin placing out suckers,” one person said. “I used to be in a position to do away with one in my backyard by chopping each sucker right down to floor degree and killing it with glyphosate focus.”
“Robinia — I want you the very best of luck if you’re making an attempt to do away with it,” mentioned a second.
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