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Habitat
Sticky Weed arrived in Sydney by ship as seeds in clay clinging
to Italian marble to be used for fireplace surrounds. Consequently,
the weed is most common around the harbour foreshores and the old
established suburbs.
It is often found growing thickly in and around rock walls and along
footpaths. The plant is not very distinctive in appearance and is
often hidden in amongst other plants. It is a small perennial herb
growing about half a metre high, with pink-reddish stems. The leaves
and small green flowers are covered in sticky hairs, attaching themselves
readily to skin, clothing and pet fur. The seeds are spread either
by being carried by people and pets or by being washed down hill.
Description
Sticky Weed is covered in fine hairs, which can irritate sensitive
skin. As well, the fine pollen can irritate the lungs of people
who suffer asthma. Sticky Weed produces large amounts of pollen
in spring, summer and autumn. People sensitive to Sticky Weed may
find that their skin itches, their nose becomes swollen and irritated
and they may have difficulty breathing.
Noxious Weed Category:
4
Control & Removal Methods
Wear gloves when handling Sticky Weed. The small seedlings can be
pulled out easily and left to dry out and die in the sun. Mature
plants require a strong garden tool to dig out the roots. If you
try to pull out larger plants, the stems may break leaving the roots
to regrow. Spray large areas of Sticky Weed with glyphosate and
follow up by removing or spraying any seedlings for several months
at least.
Sticky Weed is very invasive. Avoid spreading it to new areas.
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