Priority weeds of the Murray & Riverina - Khaki weed

Native to Brazil, Ecuador, Peru and Venezuela khaki weed (Alternanthera pungens) is a summer-growing perennial herb with a deep taproot system.

Tim Moodie at Murray River council is all too familiar with Khaki weed and the damage it can cause. “Khaki weed can injure people and animals by penetrating the skin. It can contaminate crops and devalue wool” he said.

Khaki weed spreads by seed within spiny bracts that adhere to tyres, clothing and animals. Local spread may also occur through spreading stems that root at nodes. It is widespread in wasteland, caravan parks, orchards and recreation areas.

How can I tell if it’s on my property? 

Khaki weed is a thick groundcover, stems prostrate and hairy, leaves broad ovate in opposite pairs, round clusters of tiny flowers along the upper stem and pale sharp-tipped bracts from a burr around seeds. Check out this video to find out more.

What can you do?

If you see it, report it!

Call your local council weed officer or contact NSW DPI Biosecurity Helpline on 1800 680 244, or send an email (including a photo if you have one) to weeds@dpi.nsw.gov.au

Successful weed control relies upon follow up after the initial efforts. This means looking for and killing regrowth.

For more information - NSW WeedWise