Moth Plant is strangling out our native species. Each pod contains 1000’s of seeds spread by the wind, learn how you can stop the spread!
Moth Plant or Cruel Vine (Asclepiadaceae – Araujia hortorum) is invading our native spaces, its vine strangles emerging species as it climbs into the canopy, where it fruits and spreads. Each pod contains 250- 1000 seeds which are spread on tiny tufts by the wind for kilometres around!
Moth Plant is in our Dirty Dozen, its a quiet invader that thrives in our native bush on margins and anywhere it can take hold. Moth Plant seedlings are extremely shade tolerant and love our warm, rich moist soils.
A toxic sticky white sap is released when the vine is bruised or broken so care must be taken to protect your eyes and skin when handling moth plant.
Moth Plant Pod and Flower
Moth Plant Seeds Dispersed in Canopy
How you can help…
You can pull out seedlings and roots of large plants should be cut off at least 5cm underground, or apply herbicide to remove them. We find MetGel from Cut’n’Paste works a treat, for the best outcome you should cut just above the ground and quickly (within a few seconds) apply the gel to both ends (the stump and the vine). Try working in pairs, one cutting and the other pasting. Please always read the instructions on the label and wear protective clothing.
Need help?
If you are in the Tutukaka area and need help or access to MetGel please contact us text 022 526 1972 or email s.w.a.tutukaka@gmail.com – our team of weed surveyors and slayers are only too happy to assist!
For more information check out Northland Regional Council’s Pest Control Hub (click here) or Weedbusters (click here)
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