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Habitat
Trad comes from South America but it has become widely established
in our Sydney bushland, especially through the dumping of garden
refuse. This succulent herb grows very quickly and spreads over
the ground forming a dense mat. As you may have noticed, it very
effectively smothers all other small plants!
Little wonder it is such a fierce competitor when it will tolerate
full sun, full shade, nutrient enriched soils and damp places. On
top of all this, any tiny sections left lying on the ground will
usually root at each node to carry on the fight!
Description
This weed has long brittle, succulent and trailing stems. The leaves
are a shiny mid to dark green up to six centimetres long and have
very well defined nodes. They often have a few fine hairs at the
base. The small white star-like flowers form a cluster at the end
of the stem.
Trad is from the Commelinaceae family and is in fact often confused
with the native ground cover, Commelina cyanea, especially if they
are growing together. However, the flowers of Commelina are bright
blue, and the roots are thick and fleshy compared to the weed species.
Another clue is their habitat. Commelina generally prefers fairly
sunny positions and will not grow in deep shade like the Trad does.
The difference between their leaves is harder to describe, so if
in doubt, wait for the flowers.
Noxious Weed Category: 4
Control & Removal Methods
Trying to remove this weed is tricky because the stem breaks so
easily at the nodes. All parts of the plant must be removed by hand
pulling or raking, and even when you’re sure you have them
all, it’s worth checking again! On hard surfaces it may be
rolled up like a carpet. Herbicide is not usually effective.
So don’t expect miracles straight away as it is very difficult
to completely disengage Trad on your first attempt. Follow up weeding
will be necessary, however it is well worth the effort!
Composting Trad is always effective, or bag it and put it out for
the Council’s Green Waste collection. |
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