grow me instead - a guide for gardners in the gippsland area

7/25/2019 Grow Me Instead - A Guide for Gardners in the Gippsland Area

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GROW ME INSTEADGROW ME INSTEAD

Grow MeGrow MeInstead!Instead!

A Guide for Gardeners in the Gippsland area

WELLINGTON SHIRE,WELLINGTON SHIRE,WELLINGTON SHIRE,EAST GIPPSLAND SHIREEAST GIPPSLAND SHIREEAST GIPPSLAND SHIRE

& LATROBE CITY& LATROBE CITY& LATROBE CITY


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GARDEN ESCAPEGARDEN ESCAPE

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IntroductionIntroductionIntroductionIntroduction

Weeds are a serious threat to primary productionand biodiversity, displacing native species and con-tributing to land and water degradation. Weeds re-duce farm productivity by taking up space, particu-larly when they are unpalatable to stock.

It has been estimated that weeds cost Victorian ag-

riculture more than $360 million each year!

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Thatdoesnt include costs to public land managers suchas local councils or the cost to the environment.

Many of our worst weeds have come from the gar-den by jumping the back fence and establishing inour waterways and bushland. Birds and foxes eatthe fruits of plants such as Cotoneaster and Privet,which they can carry kilometres away. Seeds alsoblow long distances in the wind and wash downdrains into waterways, where they grow and spread.

Of all our noxious weeds, garden plants make up 30per cent and in Victoria alone, we have about 600garden escapees that are now weeds!2

Garden escapees are very good at out-competinglocal plants as they establish quickly from seed ordumped garden waste, and take up space, nutri-ents, light and water. Native plants can becomeweeds too. Plants such as Cootamundra Wattlehave escaped cultivation in all states of Australia.Once established, garden escapees are very diffi-cult and expensive to control or eradicate.

The seed head or flower of native WindmillGrass (Chloris truncata)Photo: Mick Cincotta


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Pink Bindweed (Convolvuluserubescens) Australian nativePhoto: Annie Lamb

The purpose of this booklet is to educate gardenersand nurseries about garden escapees in an effort toreduce their effects on our environment. There aremany garden escapees available for sale in Victoria,some of them illegally. All it takes is a little fore-thought and care when planning your garden tomake sure your beautiful plants are not going to be

the next Bridal Creeper.

1Source: Department of Primary Industries2Source: Low, T. (2001) Feral Future. Penguin Books

Hop Goodenia(Goodenia ovata)Australian nativePhoto: Annie Lamb


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A word from the NurseryA word from the NurseryA word from the NurseryA word from the NurseryIndustryIndustryIndustryIndustry

Nursery & Garden Industry Victoria is the peak in-dustry body for the nursery and garden industry inVictoria. We represent those businesses that growand sell plants and others associated with this veryimportant industry. As an industry we have an im-portant role to play in the sustainability of Australias

natural environment. We take this responsibility seri-ously and for many years now, have been workingwith nurseries, government and the community toreduce the number of potentially invasive plants thatare in your gardens, parks and the natural environ-ment.

Crucial to this important work is the identificationand recognition of invasive plants and the replace-ment of these plants with those that we know willnot jump the fence.

This Grow Me Instead booklet will serve both theresidents and the natural environment of the Gipp-sland region well. Enjoy your gardening and remem-ber if you are in doubt then ask your local nursery orgarden centre.

David MathewsNGIV President


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Sustainable Gardening is all about gardening in away that minimises the negative impact our garden-ing practices have on the natural environment, whilemaximising the positive impacts we can have.

Gardening can have a positive benefit to the healthof our environment. If we plant local plants we pro-vide food and shelter for birds and butterflies. Byconserving water in the garden we help maintainwater levels in our reservoirs. If we reduce the useof chemicals in the garden we help to keep ourstormwater runoff into creeks and streams chemi-cal- free. By composting our household and gardenorganic waste we can reduce the amount of wastegoing into landfill and therefore reduce the amountof greenhouse gas produced. If we purchase renew-able resources for the garden instead of non-renewable resources, we can help to protect our old

growth forests and river ecosystems.

It is easy to create beautiful gardens that suit ourlocal climate and soil and have a low impact on ournatural environment.

Mary TriggerChief Executive OfficerSustainable Gardening Australia

Sustainable GardeningSustainable GardeningSustainable GardeningSustainable Gardening


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How You Can Make a DifferenceHow You Can Make a DifferenceHow You Can Make a DifferenceHow You Can Make a DifferenceThere are simple things that you can do as a home orcommercial gardener to prevent garden plants jumpingthe back fence into bushland and creeks.

Remove invasive plants from your garden andreplace them with natives or non-invasive exot-ics.

Dont dump your garden waste in the bush,creeks or on the roadside, as it will spread and

take over. Dispose of it properly by taking it tothe tip. (Plants can be placed in garbage bagsand left in the sun for a month to kill them beforetaking them to the tip).

Watch for, and report, garden plants that areinvading your local area.

Prune plants that have the potential to spreadbefore seeds set. For example, cut the heads offAgapanthus before they dry and set seed.

Visit your local nursery and ask for plants thatwont spread, such as those native to the local

area, or talk to your councils weed officer.

Planning your garden:Planning your garden:Planning your garden:Planning your garden:

Think about the habits of what you are about to plant.Weeds are usually species that are hardy, frost ordrought-tolerant, seed prolifically, grow in disturbedareas or hybridise naturally. If you see any of thesefeatures on the plant tag, ask if it is likely to spread ortake over and find something that wont get out of con-trol.

Weeds are every-ones responsibil-

ity and yours does-nt stop at the gar-

den fence.

This ivy plant is jumpingthe back fence andcreeping into bushlandPhoto: Annie Lamb


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ContactsContactsContactsContactsLatrobe City Councilwww.latrobecity.vic.gov.au1300 367 700

East Gippsland Shire Councilwww.egipps.vic.gov.au1300 555 886

Wellington Shire CouncilEnvironmental Services1300 366 244www.wellington.vic.gov.au

Sustainable Gardening Australia03 9850 8165www.sgaonline.org.au

Nursery and Garden Industry of Victoria03 9576 0599www.ngiv.com.au

Weeds Australiawww.weeds.org.au

For a list of declared noxious weeds:www.dpi.vic.gov.au

Federal Department of Environment and Heritagewww.deh.gov.au

Denotes indigenous plant (locally native)

Denotes Australian native plant

Denotes exotic plant

KEY

This creek is beingchoked by weeds fromdumped garden waste,which is then beingtransported downstreamto invade new areas.Photo: Annie Lamb


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Cootamundra WattleAcacia baileyanaAustralian Native Plant

Very popular garden wattle due to its silvery-greyfoliage and mass of yellow ball shaped flowers.Widely cultivated and available in nurseries.

Very invasive outside its natural range.

Seeds are spread by birds and wind, and are

long-lived in the soil Invades drier sites such as woodlands, grass-

lands and heath lands Will re-sprout after a fire from soil-stored

seed, this makes access easier for other con-trol methods

Photo: Annie Lamb


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Jacaranda TreeJacaranda species

With more than 50 species ofJacaranda, there are plenty tochoose from. They have massesof purple-lilac flowers over sum-mer, carpeting the ground when

they fall. Jacarandas grow into talltrees, are fast growing and prefer well-drained soiland a sunny position.

Photo: 1999, Nova-Norwood

Buxton GumEucalyptus crenulata

If its the blue-grey foliage you like

about Cootamundra Wattle, thenBuxton Gum is for you. It hasbeautiful blue-grey leaves that arewidely used in floristry, with lots ofwhite to cream flowers in spring.Grows up to 8m and is readilygrown from seed. Contrasts with other plants in thegarden. Needs a damp spot and can handle inunda-tion.

Did you know?Buxton Gum is an Endangered plant found only intwo reserves in Victoria, with about 130 plants intotal. There are more plants in cultivation than therehas ever been in the wild.

Photo: M Fagg ANBG


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Willows

Salixspecies

Admired for their weeping foliage and ability to sta-bilise banks, Willows have been widely plantedalong waterways. There are 32 naturalised taxa inAustralia, which cause channel diversion, loss ofstream capacity and degrade water quality andstream health. Most are listed as Weeds of NationalSignificance.

Seeds are spread by water and wind formany kilometres

Plant fragments transported downstream willgrow into another tree Readily hybridise with other Willow taxa

Note: Most species of willows are listed DeclaredNoxious Weeds in Victoria, meaning it is illegaltosell or trade them or material containing them.

Photo: Annie Lamb


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Weeping Willow Corkscrew WillowSalix babylonica Salix matsudanatortuosa

These species of willow are exempt from the Weedsof National Significance list, so they can be planted,but pleasebe careful not to plant them in or nearwaterways or other willows as they can hybridiseeasily with other willow species. Make sure youcheck the species when you buy them.

Pin OakQuercus palustris

This medium-sized treegrows to 20m and is com-monly used as a streettree. It has a straight trunkand defoliates each winter

upon maturity. It prefersbeing in wet soil over win-ter and has an extensiveroot system so dont plant itnear a fence or footpath! Beautiful for autumn col-our.


Photo: www.etab.ac-caen.frPhoto: Annie Lamb


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Peppercorn TreeSchinus ariera

Native to South America, this large tree is resistantto fire and drought, and can re-sprout if damaged.Widely planted in gardens and dry areas, it is avail-able for sale from many nurseries. They are fastgrowing (almost a metre per year!) with a rapidly-developing root system.

Female plants have bright red berries, spread

by birds Seed is stored in the soil for many years Invades grassland, woodland and dry forest,

as well as riparian areas in some cases.

This one of Australias ten most serious invasivegarden plants that is currently available for sale.

Photos: Annie Lamb


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Golden HoneyLocustGletitsia sunburst

Medium to tall treewith bright yellow-green leaves that turn

yellow in autumn. Hasmasses of white flowers in spring. Grows quickly,up to 8m and can be used as a hedge plant orgrown as a tree. Needs full sun and is frost-tolerant.


Silky OakGrevillea robusta

This Australian native is a favour-ite for street trees and backyards.Unlike most Grevilleas, Silky Oakgrows up to 35m, is fast-growingand has beautiful golden-orangeflowers up to 10cm long. It flow-ers from September to Novem-ber and has small brown nutsfrom December to March.

Photo: C Green ANBG

Photo: Annie Lamb

Photo: Annie Lamb


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Mirror BushCoprosma repens

Resistant to fire, drought and tolerates most soiltypes. Its resistance to salt spray has made it apopular garden plant in coastal environments,where it is an aggressive invader. There are severalcultivars and all are invasive.

Orange berries are spread by birds Spreads and smothers other plants

Invades coastal heath lands and dune sys-tems Canopy smothers all other vegetation Can grow prostrate, rooting where branches

touch the ground

Photos: Annie Lamb


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Japanese CamelliaCamellia japonica

Camellias have glossy greenleaves similar to mirror bushand can be used as a hedge orinformal fence. Japanese Ca-mellia will display white to redflowers over the cooler months

to give you some winter colour.Each plant will grow to about 5m tall and 4m wide,with many cultivars available for different flower col-ours and forms. Photo: 1999, Nova-Norwood

BoobiallaMyoporum insulare

Growing up to 6m, this leafy shrub hassmooth green leaves and clusters offragrant white flowers with purplespots. The purple-green fruit is edible.Boobialla prefers well drained sandysoils and is salt-tolerant, so well-suitedto coastal areas. It also makes a greatfire-retardant plant.

Rough CoprosmaCoprosma hirtella

This shrub grows 1-2m tall andhas dark green leaves that are

rough to touch. Flowers are smalland green, followed by red to or-ange fruits in January to March. Needs moist, well-

drained soil and a sheltered posi-tion.

Photo: M Fagg ANBG

Photo: D Hardin RBG Sydney

Photo: M Fagg ANBG


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CotoneasterCotoneaster species

Popular garden plants grown for bright fruits andwinter colour. Also grown as hedges last century.At least nine species of Cotoneaster have natural-ised in Australia.

Seeds are spread when birds eat the fruit Seeds and fruit are washed along water-

courses

Also spread by dumped garden waste Berries can be poisonous if eaten Can host fireblight bacterial disease

In the ACT some species are banned from salebut they are widely available in Victoria.

Photos:Annie Lamb


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Lilly PillyAcmena smithii

Native to Gippsland, the Lilly Pilly iswidely-available under many namesand used as a screening plant as itgrows quickly and can be formed intoa hedge, but naturally grows as abushy tree (up to 30m). It has glossy,

dark green leaves and large pink or mauve berries.

Many small, creamy flowers appear over thesummer. Photo: M Fagg ANBG

Myrtus LumaLuma apiculata

This fast-growing plant can beclipped into dense, tall hedges,grown naturally or used for mak-ing topiaries. It flowers sporadi-

cally over the summer months,with small white flowers and hasscented foliage. It can grow 3-4 feet in a year and issafe to plant near footpaths or fences. Needs fullsun to light shade, and well-drained soils.


HebeHebespecies

Hebes are easy growing shrubswith flowers of varying colours frompink to purple. They make idealhedge or border plants and cangrow to about 1m. Many cultivarsare available from nurseries, withdifferent habits and flower colour. They prefer fullsun to part shade and well-drained soil.

Photo:www.stanford.edu


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HawthornCrataegus monogyna

A prickly, deciduous shrub grown for hedges orcheap fences in the past. Often found near oldhomesteads. It forms dense, impenetrable thicketsand can dominate the understorey of bushland.

Produces large amounts of seed

Berries spread by birds and stock Seeds are spread by farm machinery Forms suckers when roots are disturbed

Photo:www.nature-diary.co.uk Photo:www.diplomlandespflege.de

Hawthorn is being removed from this revegetation site andcan be seen in the background. Photo: Ian Bate


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Native to Gippsland, the Lilly Pilly iswidely-available under many namesand used as a screening plant as itgrows quickly and can be formedinto a hedge, but naturally grows asa bushy tree (up to 30m). It has

glossy, dark green leaves and large pink or mauve

berries. Many small, creamy flowers appear over thesummer.

Photo: M. Fagg ARBG

Sweet BursariaBursaria spinosa

This shrub is native to most of Victo-ria. It grows 2-6m tall, has small, tea-

tree like leaves andclusters of fragrant,

cream coloured flow-ers over summer. Ithas small spikes along the branchesand prefers well-drained soil.

Japanese MapleAcer palmatum

Japanese Maples look amazing inautumn when the leaves turn an

intense red and bring colour to thegarden. Leaves are palm-shapedand are bright green over summer.The first few years are fast -growing, but growth willslow down with maturity. Grows 6-7 metres high, infull sun to part shade and prefers well-drained soil.


Photos: M. Fagg ARBG


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Pampas GrassCortaderia jubata andCortaderia selloana

This ornamental grass is widely planted in gardensand along driveways. It forms a huge tussock withtall, white, fluffy flower spikes. Tolerates salinity, ishardy and can quickly take over an area. It is a com-mon weed along railway lines.

Produces thousands of seeds each year

Seeds spread long distances by wind Almost impossible to kill once established Mature plants need to be removed with ma-

chinery Invades coastal areas, roadsides and railway

easements

Photo: Annie Lamb


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Red-fruited Saw SedgeGahnia sieberiana

This clumping sedge grows to 1.5-3m,has long roughleaves and tallspikes of yellowish-brown to black flow-ers from October to

January. Prefers moist soils formost of the year but it will toler-ate drier soils once it is estab-

lished.

Kangaroo PawsAnigozanthos species

Native to Western Australia, Kan-garoo Paws have a tussock ofstrappy leaves with tall flowerstalks ranging from pink to yellow.There are many varieties in differ-ent colours and sizes readily avail-able in nurseries. Grow in well-drained soil in a sunny position.

Beach or Coast TussockGrassPoa poiformis var. poiformis

This native tussock grass grows in

coastal environments in Gipp-sland. It has a dense tuft of bluishleaves with tall flower spikes up to90cm from September to January.Tolerates saline soils and saltspray and although it isnt as tall as

Pampas Grass, it has a similar habit and makes agreat ornamental grass.

Photo: EurobodallaShire Council

Photo: M.Fagg ANBG

Photo: D Greig ANBG

Photo: B Walters ASGAP


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Sweet Pittosporum

Pittosporum undulatumAustralian NativePlant

This is native to the Gippsland region, but in areasoutside its natural range, it can become quite ag-gressive and smother out other plants, taking overthe understorey of bushland. Sweet Pittosporumshould only be removed if it is becoming invasive.

Seeds spread by birds Has chemicals toxic to other plants, which

prevents growth around it

Spreads quickly to invade bushland and over-take understorey Shades out other plants

Remember, it is an offence to remove, destroyor lop ANY native vegetation without a permit. If indoubt, contact your local council.

Photos: Annie Lamb


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Rough-Fruit PittosporumPittosporum revolutum

Native to East Gippsland (past LakesEntrance), this tree grows 1-6m talland has rough, orange berries with redseeds and cream to yellow flowers inspring. It will grow in shade and tolerate damp areasas it naturally grows in shady bushland and rainfor-

est.Photo: M Fagg ANBG


Native to Gippsland, the Lilly Pilly iswidely available under many namesand used as a screening plant as itgrows quickly and can be formedinto a hedge, but naturally grows as

a bushy tree (up to 30m). It hasglossy, dark green leaves and large pink or mauveberries. Many small, creamy flowers appear over thesummer.

Photo: M Fagg ANBG

Native FrangipaniHymenosporum flavum

This rainforest tree grows to 8m, is

hardy and fast growing. It has largecream to yellow flowers from Marchto November and soft, dark greenleaves. It is highly-scented and will grow in shade orfull sun.

Photo: Brian Walters ASGAP


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Photo: M Fagg ANBG

Bluebell CreeperSollya heterophyllaAustralian Native Plant

This is a native to Western Australia but has be-come a weed outside its natural range. It is a vigor-ous climber, which twines around other plants,smothering them out. There are different formsavailable in nurseries, varying in flower colour. It ishardy and will grow as a shrub if there are no otherplants to climb on.

Has sticky seed pods, spread by birds andfoxes

Seed pods burst open, spreading seeds awayfrom main plant

Will spread by smothering other plants andovertaking the understorey

Invades heath land, grassland and dry forests

Photo: DPI

Photo: Ian Bate


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Edna Walling Blue Bells TMSollya heterophylla xparviflora

This sterile form of the popularBluebell Creeper is named afterEdna Walling, an Australian landscape gardener ofthe mid 1900s. It is a small dense shrub that twinesalong posts or walls. Likes full sun or light shadeand well-drained soils. It has the characteristicsmall, blue flowers and can be grown in containers.This form cannot set fertile seed, so is a safer alter-native to the common Bluebell Creeper.

Photo: Austraflora P/L

ConvolvulusConvolvulus mauritanicus

Trailing plant with small, oval leavesand blue to mauve flowers fromspring to autumn. It will grow in sunor shade, tolerates salt spray and is

hardy. It can be used in hangingbaskets, as a spill-over plant or

ground cover and can be pruned to shape. Convol-vulus are widely available and there are cultivarswith different coloured flowers.

Native JasmineJasminum suavissimum

Native to New South Wales, this Jas-mine has perfumed white flowers dur-ing late spring and summer. It is atwining plant and is hardy, providedthe soil is well-drained. If planted nearother plants, it will twine over them, but ifplanted away, it can be grown as a shrub.Prefers full sun to part shade and will tol-erate mild frosts.

Photo: BrianWalters ASGAP

Photo: Annie Lamb


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Blue PeriwinkleVinca major

Often planted as a colourful ground cover for shadyareas, it smothers out native vegetation and over-takes the ground layer. Invades moist and shadysites in bushland as well as waterways.

Spreads by stems along the ground Broken pieces left behind will grow into new

plants

Plant pieces can also spread by water andestablish downstream

Spread by dumping garden waste

Photos: Annie Lamb


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Native Sarsaparilla or HappyWandererHardenbergia violacea

Commonly available under the nameHappy Wanderer, thisnative climber hasbeautiful purple flowers from July toNovember, but is also available with

white or pink flowers and as abushy shrub. It has large greenleaves and makes a good screeneror cover-up plant. Prefers well-drained soils.Photos: M Fagg ANBG

Creeping BoobiallaMyoporum parvifolium

This ground-creepingplant grows quickly andspreads 2-4m wide. It hasmasses of small white topink star-like flowers over summer, followed by edi-ble green to purple berries. Prefers well-drained soiland full sun, and is also frost tolerant. It is useful forbinding soil and looks great in rockeries.

Photo: A McWhirter ANBG

BougainvilleaBougainvillea spectabilis hybrids

Bougainvilleas are climbing plants that love sun andwarmth. They thrive in free-draining soil and hate watersitting around the roots. Theyflower over summer in a rangeof colours from mauve to scar-let red.Photo: www.gradinamea.ro


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Bridal creeperAsparagus asparagoides

This aggressive climber was introduced as an orna-mental and despite being a Declared NoxiousWeed, is still available in some nurseries. It quicklysmothers out ground layer vegetation and climbs upanything it can, strangling the plants underneath inthe process.

Fruit matures by early summer and is spreadby birds

Grows during autumn-winter, forming densecurtains of twining stems

Spreads by underground tubers, which formup to 90 per cent of plant mass

Foliage dies off over summer, leaving the tu-ber mass underground

It is illegalto sell or trade this weed and this in-cludes sharing cuttings with your neighbour!Biological control is available for this weed.

Photos: Annie Lamb


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Commonly available under the nameHappy Wanderer, thisnative climber hasbeautiful purple flowers from July toNovember, but is also available with

white or pink flowers and as a bushyshrub. It has large green leaves andmakes a good screener or cover-upplant. Prefers well-drained soils.

Photos: M Fagg ANBG

Creeping Fig HedgeFicus pumila

This vigorous, climbing fighas roots that attach them-selves to surfaces such as

walls, trees or fences, mak-ing it an excellent screeningplant or hedge. It has crinkly,heart shaped leaves and themature plants produce yellow-green inedible figs.

*Please be aware that this plant grows vigorouslyand should not be dumped or planted near bush-land as it may spread.

Photo: Burkes Backyard


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Wandering tradTradescantia fluminensis

This rampant, smothering creeper invades moist,shaded environments. It dominates the groundlayer, preventing shrub and tree growth and is acommon garden plant used in shady areas.

Spreads by stolons along the ground Plant pieces spread in soil and water grow

into new infestations

Stem fragments dumped in garden waste re-sult in new outbreaks

Serious invader of damp areas and our creeksand rivers

Abovephoto:

R.P.Ellis

Photos above & right:: Annie Lamb


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Bidgee WidgeeAcaena novae-zelandiae

This native groundcover plant growsout to 4m and will grow over rocks,logs and spill over retaining walls. Theunusual flowers are round green towhite balls, followed by fruit headswith pinkish-red spikes. A great ground

cover and soil-stabilising plant. Willgrow in full sun or shade and in damp or dry spots.The burrs can be a problemwith clothing and dog coats soplant them in a spot with lowtraffic.

Photo: MorwellNational Park

Native Pig FaceCarprobrotus modestus or C.rossii

These native Pig Face plants aregreat ground covers and naturallygrow in costal environments. Theygrow out to 3m wide and have thick,

succulentleaves.Flowers vary from hot pink

to purple and white, with yel-low centres, and open onlyon sunny days. They aredrought and salt-tolerant,making them perfect for thecoast or sandy soils.

C.modestusPhoto: D. Greig ANBG

C. rossiiPhoto: M Fagg ANBG

Photo: M. Fagg ANBG


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MontbretiaCrocosmia x crocosmiiflora

A popular garden plant that has become an aggres-sive invader of woodlands, roadsides, drainagelines and creek banks. Plants produce hundreds ofseeds each year and corms can re-shoot for at leasttwo seasons.

Seeds are spread in water, soil and by slash-ing

Corms are spread by water, soil, slashing andduring removal

Many infestations are the result of dumping ofgarden waste

Highly invasive in the garden as well as bush-land

L & R: KateBlood

Photo: Peter Steller


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Day LilyHemerocallis species

Day lilies are hardy and frost toler-ant, but require well-drained soiland a sunny position. Each floweronly lasts one day, but plants havenumerous flowers over several

months. Many varieties are available with coloursfrom white to burgundy and yellow. They will grow toabout 1m with a tussock of strappy leaves to 60cmwide. Photo: 1999, Nova-Norwood

Bulbine LilyBulbine bulbosa

This native lily has a tuft of leaves atthe base, with a tall stalk of yellow star-like flowers from September to Janu-

ary. Dies back during autumn and earlywinter to a tuberous rootstock, but maycontinue to produce flowers throughoutthe year with extra watering over sum-mer. Prefers moist, well-drained soils.

Photos: M Fagg ANBG

Other alternatives include:

Flax LiliesDianella speciesSee page 37 for details

Kangaroo PawsAnigozanthos speciesSee page 37 for details

Photos: M Fagg ANBG


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Arum Lily

Zantedeschia aethiopica

A popular garden plant for damp areas and widelyused by florists, Arum lilies invade waterways, road-sides and damp or wet areas. All parts of the plantare poisonous to animals (including humans) andcause skin irritations. Arum Lilies are widely avail-able in nurseries and garden centres.

Plants spread by rhizomes Seeds is spread by water, birds, foxes and

soil.

Also spread by dumping of garden waste Hard to kill as they tolerate frost, water log-

ging, wind, sun orshade and most soil typesincluding sand.

Photo: Annie Lamb


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Elephants EarsAlocasia macrrorhiza

Grows up to 2m, has large, tropicallooking leaves and white to yellowflowers followed by red berries insummer. Grows best in moist,

shady areas. Areas that attractrun-off are suitable.

Photo: M Fagg ANBG

Calla liliesZantedeschia hybrids

Up to 1m tall with many col-our varieties. The spotted,

dark green leaves die downin winter. Grows well in richsoil and full sun to lightshade.


Christmas Lily/Amazon LilyEucharis x grandiflora

Up to 70cm with white, scentedflowers. Prefers moist soils andgrows in part shade to full sun. Canbe grown in pots.

Photo: Australian Bulb Association Image Gallery


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AgapanthusAgapanthus praecox ssp. orientalis

Agapanthus are very popular garden plants, particu-larly in country areas to line driveways, but they areeasily spread. They invade roadsides, bushland andwaterways, and are often grown because of theirhardiness and impossibility to be killed!

Spreads by rhizomes, forming thick clumps Seeds are spread by wind, water and soil Often spread by dumping garden waste Each flower head can have hundreds of seed Leaves and rhizomes are toxic and can cause

severe ulceration of the mouth

TIP: cut off the flower heads each year beforethey dry and set seed

Photos: Annie Lamb, except top by Natalie Liddell


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Kangaroo PawsAnigozanthos species

Native to Western Austra-

lia, Kangaroo Paws have atussock of strappy leaveswith tall flower stalks rang-ing from pink to yellow.

There are many varieties in differentcolours and sizes, readily-available innurseries. Grows in well-drained soilin a sunny position.

Mat-rushesLomandra longifoliaor Lomandrafiliformis

These indigenoussedges grow into atussock of strappyleaves and have prickly

flower spikes. Grow well in sandy soils and some-times damp soils. L. filiformis grows to 20cm,

whereas L. longifolia grows to 1m. Photo: Annie Lamb

Flax LiliesDianella species

These native lilies have a tussock ofstrappy leaves and tall flower spikeswith amazing purple flowers and ber-ries. Grow in sunny, well drained po-

sitions. There are varietieswith variegated leaves and dwarf varieties.Different species vary in size, width ofleaves and flowers. Most are commonlyavailable in nurseries. Try Dianella tas-manica or Dianella revoluta. Both are in-digenous to the Gippsland area.

Photo: Annie Lamb

Lomandra longifolia

D. tasmanicaPhoto: M Fagg ANBG

Photos: MFagg ANBG


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GazaniasGazaniaspp.

These have been a favourite of people living incoastal areas for some time but are very invasive,particularly in residential areas near the beach,where they are frequently planted. There are manyvarieties available in nurseries and most are weedy,specifically G.linearis andG.rigens.

Produce abundant seeds that are spread bywind and water

Spread by dumping garden waste Also spread by stolons Stops native ground layer plants from growing Quickly spreads along roadsides by seed

blown from nearby gardens

Photos: Annie Lamb


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Cut Leaf DaisyBrachyscome multifida var.multifida

A fast-growing, spreading daisywith small flowers with white,lilac blue, pink or mauve flowersmost of the year but peaking inspring and summer. Up to 40cm high and spreading

to 1m, they are great for rockeriesand as a soil binder. Prefer moistsoils. Very popular ornamental andavailable in most nurseries. Not tobe confused with the invasive Sea-side Daisy Erigeron karvinskianus.

Photos: Annie Lamb

Native Pig FaceCarprobrotus modestus or C. rossii

These native Pig Face plants are greatground covers and naturally grow incostal environments. They grow out to3m wide and have thick, succulentleaves. Flowers vary from hot pink to

purple and white,with yellow centres ,and openonly on sunny days. They aredrought and salt-tolerant, mak-ing them perfect for the coast or

sandy soils.

C.modestusPhoto: D. Greig ANBG

C. rossiiPhoto: M Fagg ANBG


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Lantana hybrids

Lantana camara hybridsThis scrambling shrub is often planted along fences,and loves being neglected! Flower clusters varyfrom pink to yellow; leaves and stems are rough totouch. Common Lantana camarais a declared nox-ious weed in Victoria and it is illegal to sell or trade.The hybrid forms are quickly becoming some ofAustralias worst weeds.

Cross pollinates with Lantana camara, in-creasing spread

Overgrows native vegetation, smotheringtrees and shrubs Seeds spread by birds and in dumped garden

waste Also spreads by suckers Toxic to humans and animals

Photos below & right:Colin G Wilson

Photo above:Annie Lamb


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Old Mans BeardClematis aristata

This native climbing planthas masses of white star-shaped flowers to 6cmacross and fluffy seedheads. Leaves are shinygreen and up to 8cm long. Grows in shade to full

sun in well-drained soil. Another species C. micro-phylla var. microphylla(Small-leafed Clematis), hassmaller leaves to 3cm long,cream flowers and grows indrier sites. Both climb toaround 3m.

Golden GuineaFlowerHibbertia scandens

This vigorous climbing orscrambling plant grows 2-5 metres long and haslarge, golden yellow flowers mostly in spring andsummer. Each flower lasts only one day, but many

flowers are produced over aperiod of time. It flowers best

in full sun, but will grow insemi-shaded areas too, toler-ates moderate frost andmakes a great screening plantalong walls or fences.

Photo: A McWhirter ANBG

Photo: D Kelly ANBG

Photo: Brian Walters ASGAP

Photo: M Fagg ANBG


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KikuyuPennisetum clandestinum

This common lawn grass isnt a problem when con-fined to the lawn, but it often escapes and invadesbushland. It should never be planted near bush re-serves or where it wont be kept trimmed.

Creeping stems take root at the nodes Fragments spread by lawn mowers, in soil and

dumped garden waste All roots and stems have to be removed or

plant will regrow Listed as one of the worst crop weeds in the

world

Photos: Annie Lamb


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Windmill GrassChloris truncata

This small native grassgrows to 45cm tall, hasblue-green leaves withspikes of purple to blackflowers in a windmill shape. Prefers well-drainedsoils and a sunny position. Flowers are similar to

couch grass, only bigger. Also suitable for pastures.Photo: Mick Cincotta

Weeping GrassMicrolaena stipoides

This native grass grows to 60cmhigh with flower stems to 1mhigh that arch over to give it thename weeping grass. Makes agreat lawn grass for shady sites and

looks attractive in the garden.

Prefers well-drained soil. Canbe regularly mown.

Common Tussock GrassPoa labillardieri

Forms a densely-tufted tussockabout 1m tall with seed headsup to 1.2m high. Leaves vary

from green, grey-green to blue-green. Flowers Oct-Feb andgrows in moist to slightly drysoils. Grows quickly. Widely-available in nurseries.

Note: There are other species of Poathat areavailable from indigenous nurseries.

Photo: D Sharp,QLD Herbarium

Photo: G Manley ANBG

Photo: Annie Lamb


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Spanish HeathErica lusitanica

This erect woody shrub can produce up to 230 mil-lion seeds in its 30 year life span! Rapidly spreadsalong roadsides and drainage lines via water andmachinery. It invades heath lands, waterways anddamp or dry bush land.

Tolerates drought, grazing, slashing andtrampling

Roots readily sucker and spread

Seeds spread by wind, water, soil, machineryand dumped garden waste

Seeds remain viable in the soil for more thanfour years

Photo:Kate Blood


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Common HeathEpacris impressa

Victorias floral emblem, CommonHeath is an upright heath to 1.5m,although usually much less thanthis, with small prickly leaves andmasses of white, pink or red flow-ers from March to November.Prefers moist, well-drained soil.

Great for rockeries.Photo: D Greig ANBG

ThryptomeneThryptomene species

There are more than 40 species ofThryptomenewith different colouredflowers and growth habits. Most areshrubs up to 1.5m high and 0.5mwide. Used in floristry, they havefragrant foliage and beautiful, dainty

flowers varying from white to darkpink. Thryptomenesare tough, drought-tolerantshrubs that prefer well-drained soils.Photo: M. Fagg ANBG

BoroniaBoronia species

Boronias are available at most nurser-ies and in a variety of colours andforms from tall shrubs to ground cov-

ers. They gen-

erally grow in free-drainingsoil but there are varietiesavailable for different cli-mates and soil types, soask at the nursery.

Photo:D. Greig ANBG

Photo: M. Fagg ANBG


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English IvyHedera helix

This rampant climber comes from England, wherethe winter snow keeps it under control. In Australia itthreatens our bush by overtaking the ground layer,smothering shrubs and climbing up trees. Trees of-ten collapse under the extra weight, especially dur-ing high winds.

Spreads vegetatively by climbing up trees and

shrubs Flowers when it reaches a certain height, pro-

ducing hundreds of seeds Seeds spread by wind, birds and possibly

foxes Can produce chemicals that kill other plants

Photos: Annie Lamb


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Wonga Wonga VinePandorea pandorana

This native climbergrows in shadebest, but will grow in part to full sun. Itis a twining plant with tubular whiteflowers. There are several cultivarsavailable; one called Golden Show-ers has yellow-bronze flowers. Springflowers are followed by large, oblongfruits in summer.

Photos: M. Fagg ANBG


Commonly available under the nameHappy Wanderer, this nativeclimber has beautiful

purple flowers from Julyto November, but isalso available with white or pink flow-ers and as a bushy shrub. It has largegreen leaves and makes a goodscreener or cover-up plant. Preferswell-drained soils.Photos: M. Fagg ANBG

Ornamental Grape/Common GrapeVitusvinfera

There are thousands of varie-ties of grape and many will growin most conditions. They provide glorious colour inautumn as the leaves turn various shades of redand orange. Great for winter sun and summershade as they are deciduous.

Photo: www.brandyvalleywine.com


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Cape IvyDelairea odorata

A perennial climber with stems that reach up to10m, Cape Ivy forms a thick mat on the groundlayer, smothering out native plants. Used as ascreener and on fences, it quickly climbs up treesand overtakes the garden and bush.

Spreads by climbing over other plants

Seeds are spread by birds, wind, water, soiland dumped garden waste Cut stems will re-grow when conditions are

suitable Plant fragments will grow into new plants Not widely available in nurseries but common

at markets

Photos: Annie Lamb


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Wonga Wonga VinePandorea pandorana

This native climbergrows in shadebest, but will grow in part to full sun. Itis a twining plant with tubular whiteflowers. There are several cultivarsavailable; one called Golden Show-

ers has yellow-bronze flowers. Springflowers are followed by large, oblongfruits in summer.

Photos: M. Fagg ANBG

Native Sarsaparilla orHappy WandererHardenbergia violacea

Commonly availableunder the name Happy

Wanderer, this nativeclimber has beautiful purple flowersfrom July to November, but is alsoavailable with white or pink flowersand as a bushy shrub. It has largegreen leaves and makes a goodscreener or cover-up plant. Prefers

well-drained soils. Photos: M. Fagg ANBG

Ivy-leaf GeraniumPelargonium peltata

This spreading geranium has ivy-like leaves. Available in many culti-vars with varying foliage and differ-

ent coloured flowers from pink tomauve and red. Grow in sun topart shade. Great cover for fencesor pergolas.

Photo: Thompson &Morgan Group Ltd.


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Freesias

Freesiax hybrid

Popular ornamentals, most Freesia hybrids arebased on F. albaandF. leichtliniias parent stockand are freely-available. Freesias have becomeinvasive in woodlands and roadsides, preventingthe growth of native ground cover plants. Manyinfestations are the result of deliberate plantings.

Spread by dumping of garden waste Seeds and bulbils spread by wind, water,

slashing and garden waste

Any corms left behind when digging outwill form new plants

Infestations may not be noticed until flowering starts

Photo: Sally Vidler


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Grannys BonnetAquilegia species

These small perennials grow insheltered positions and have flow-ers resembling a bonnet, with vari-ous colours from red to purple.Widely-available. Great for cut flow-ers. Photo: 1999, Nova-Norwood

DietesDietes bicolour,Dietes grandiflora

These clumping plants have darkgreen strappy leaves and have masses of flowers in

spring. D.bicolour has yellowflowers with brown markingsand D.grandiflora has whiteflowers with purple and yel-low markings. Low mainte-nance and look great in massplantings. Widely-availablecommercially.

Photos: Annie Lamb

Butterfly FlagDiplarrena moraea

These iris-like plants have aclump of long, flat leaves upto 1m tall, with taller stalks ofwhite flowers, sometimes with

purple markings.Great for mass

plantings or incontainers.Flower best in full sun and are frosthardy. They are indigenous to Gipp-sland.Photo: A McWhirter ANBG

Photo: M. Fagg ANBG


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All Nassella grassesNassellaspecies

Many of these grasses look native and are often

sold as native Stipaspecies. Beware when buyingany grasses and check that they are what the la-bel says. Most have become invasive, particularlySerrated Tussock (N. trichotoma) and MexicanFeather Grass (N. tenuissima). Serrated Tussockis a Weed of National Significance and entry intoAustralia is prohibited.

Invade pastures, native grasslands andwoodlands

Seeds spread by wind up to 16km Seeds spread by animals, hay, machinery

and on clothing Sometimes dug up and planted in gardens Unpalatable to stock Tolerate poor soil, fire, drought and frost Australia spends more than $45 million each

year on Serrated Tussock management!

N. trichotoma Serrated Tussock Photo: Peter Steller


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Common Tussock GrassPoa labillardieri

Forms a densely-tufted tussockabout 1m tall, with seed heads upto 1.2m high. Leaves vary fromgreen, grey-green to blue-green.

Flowers Oct-Feb and grows inmoist to slightly dry soils. Grows

quickly. Widely available in nurser-ies.Note: There are other species ofPoathat are available from indige-nous nurseries.Photos: Annie Lamb

Native CarexsedgesCarex apressaorCarex iynx

Carexgrow in moist to wetsites and are great for stabi-lising stream banks or inbog gardens and moistparts of the garden. C.

apressagets to 1.2m and although it is slow grow-ing, its tough and toleratesinundation. C. iynxwill growin slightly drier site, reaches40cm high and has finerleaves.

Mat-rushesLomandra longifolia orLomandra filiformis

See page 37 for details

Photo: Annie Lamb

Carex apressaPhoto: M Fagg ANBG

Photo: Mick Cincotta


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Japanese HoneysuckleLonicera japonica

Grows in woodlands, heath lands and riparian ar-

eas where annual rainfall exceeds 600mm. It is anaggressive climbing shrub that smothers nativeground layer plants, shrubs and trees. The blackberries are poisonous and leaves may also betoxic. There are many cultivars and species avail-able and most are invasive.

Spreads by stolons Plant fragments spread by water,

soil, birds and in garden waste Can cover up 6m2in one season Swapped among gardening enthusiasts

and spread from gardens

Cut stumps re-shoot Control plants before seeding at two

years

Photo: Kate Blood


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Chinese Star JasmineTrachelospermumjasminoides

This evergreen vine grows to 7mand has fragrant, white, star-shaped flowers. Adapts to mostsoils and prefers an open, sunny

position. Available from nurseries.

Photo: 1999 Nova-Norwood

WisteriaWisteriaspecies

Wisterias are vigorous climbersand there are many varietiesavailable. They commonly haveloads of beautiful lilac flowers inspring and dont need a lot ofwater or fertiliser. Best in full

sun, will grow in shade but wontflower well.

DO NOT plant W. sinensis (Chinese Wisteria)orW. floribunda (Japanese Wisteria) as these havebecome weedy in other countries and may be-come weedy here. Ask the nursery which speciesit is.

BougainvilleaBougainvillea spectabilishybrids

Bougainvilleas are climbingplants that love sun andwarmth. They thrive in free-draining soil and hate water sitting around the roots.They flower over summer in a range of colours frommauve to scarlet red. Photo: www.gradinamea.ro

Photo: 1999Nova-Norwood


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Asparagus FernAsparagus scandens

Closely-related to Bridal Creeper, this climbing planthas fern-like leaves and red berries. It forms dense,tangled nets and strangles plants. It can grow ontree ferns and tree branch crooks.Like Bridal Creeper, most of the plant mass is un-derground in the tuber mat.

Spreads by climbing over plants andvia tuberous roots

Seeds are spread by birds (especiallyblackbirds) and other animals, dumped

garden waste and machinery Tubers are long-lived and need to be

removed entirely Not commonly available at nurseries but

usually found at fetes and exchangedbetween gardeners

Photos:Annie Lamb


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Mother SpleenwortAsplemium bulbiferumssp. gracillimum

This native epiphytic fernwill grow on rocks, treefern trunks and logs aswell as in the ground. It grows in a spreading tuft

and is quite easy to grow and hardy. Grows up to1.2m. Readily-available. Photo: M. Fagg ANBG

Native MaidenhairAdiantum aethiopicum

Hard to tell apart from the intro-duced Maidenhair, this fern isideal for moist outdoor areas, but

can also be grown

in pots and hang-ing baskets if givenenough water. Up to45cm high and spreading. Widely-available.

Photo: R. Hill ANBG

Photo: D. Greig ANBG

Coral FernGleichenia rupestris

Native to far East Gipp-sland, this fern has finefronds like AsparagusFern. It grows near cliffs

and rainforests and can be grown indoors in humidconditions.

Photo: R. Hill ANBG


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Wild WatsoniaWatsonia meriana var. bulbilifera

A garden ornamental, Watsonia can be invasive inbushland and particularly along roadsides andrailway lines where machinery spreads thecormils. Infestations are often overlooked until theplants flower and a mass of orange highlights theproblem.

Underground corms are spread when disturbed Cormils grow along the flowering stem

and are spread by machinery when mow-

ing and slashing Spread by water, contaminated soil and

traded among gardeners Prevent overstorey plants from growing by

forming dense stands that smother theground layer.

Plants can live for more than 35 years!

Photos: Kate Blood


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DietesDietes bicolour,Dietes grandiflora

These clumping plants have dark

green strappy leaves and have masses of flowers inspring. D.bicolour has yellow flowers with brownmarkings and D.grandiflora has white flowers with

purple and yellow markings.Low maintenance and lookgreat in mass plantings.Widely-available commer-cially.

Photos: Annie Lamb

Kangaroo Paws

Anigozanthos species

Native to Western Australia, KangarooPaws have a tussock of strappy leaveswith tall flower stalks ranging from pink toyellow. There are many varieties in different coloursand sizes readily-available in nurseries. Grows inwell-drained soil in a sunny position.

TulipsTulipa species

There are Tulips available ina range of different colours.There are now varieties that

require lesswinter chillingprior to planting. Tulips prefer a sunny

or partly-shaded position and well-drained, cool soil. They will provide afantastic display of colour come spring-time.

Photo: 1999 Nova-Norwood

Photo: Annie Lamb

Photo: M Fagg ANBG


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AcknowledgementsAcknowledgementsAcknowledgementsAcknowledgements

We would like to thank those who helped in the pro-duction of this booklet by providing photographs,expertise, information and time. They include:

Elwyn SwayneNursery and Garden Industryof Australia

Robert ChinNursery and Garden Industry ofVictoria

Daniel JoubertDepartment of Primary In-dustries, Victoria

Jackie WattsWeeds CRC, South Australia Mary TriggerSustainable Gardening Austra-

lia Australian National Botanic Gardens Brian WaltersAssociation of Societies for

Growing Australian Plants Norwood Industries Pty Ltd Michael CincottaKeelbundora Indigenous

Nursery

LeftFlax Lilyflowers (Dianellarevoluta)

Photo: Mick Cincotta

RightNative Rosemaryflowers (Westringiaspecies)

Photo: Annie Lamb


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This project forms part of the Wellington Weed Freeinitiative, a partnership that aims to build the capac-ity of the rural and urban communities of WellingtonShire to manage weeds effectively.

This booklet was funded jointly by Wellington ShireCouncil through the Department of Sustainability &Environments Tackling Weeds on Private Land ini-tiativeLocal Government Weed ManagementGrant Program, Latrobe City Council and East Gipp-

sland Shire Council.

This booklet was produced by Annie Lamb, Welling-ton Shire Council, with help from Peter Steller, La-trobe City Council and Ian Bate, East GippslandShire Council.

LeftCommon Cassinia(Cassinia longifolia)

BelowKangarooGrass (Themeda trian-dra)Photos: Annie Lamb

LeftGrass Tree flowerspike (Xanthorrhoea aus-tralis)Photo: Annie Lamb


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NOTES


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NOTES


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grow me instead - a guide for gardners in the gippsland area

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