Know your alien invasive plant: Ant tree
Hillcrest Conservancy will produce weekly articles regarding the various alien invasive plant species in the Highway area to help the community identify and eliminate them.
THIS week, Hillcrest Conservancy takes a look at the Ant tree as part of its series of articles on alien invasive plants to help the community to identify and eradicate them from their gardens.
The Ant tree’s scientific name is Triplaris americana (Polygonaceae) but it is also known as Triplaris, Indian almond, triplaris (Afrikaans).
Description: This large tree grows up to 10 metres high and has a straight truck which is smooth and grey in colour with a cone shaped crown. The leaves are bright green and smooth, but can also be a velvety brown on the mid and side ribs or veins. Between April and May this tree produces small flowers in large clusters. Female flowers are red and are found on separate trees to male flowers. Fruits are shiny and brown. Large numbers of seeds are produced which means that the potential for many juvenile plants is a real threat. The fruit is shiny brown. Like many other alien invader plants the leaves on this tree are also poisonous.
What is its invasive status in South Africa? This is a Category 1a plant on the NEMBA which means it must be removed to avoid prosecution as well as to protect our natural environment from its rampant spread.
Where does this species come from? Central and South America.
Where in SA is it a problem? This tree is at present only a problem in KwaZulu-Natal.
How does it spread? Seed dispersal.
Why is it a problem? Competes with and has the potential to replace indigenous species. The leaves are also poisonous.
What was it used for? This plant was originally introduced as a garden ornament.
Contact Ian Pattrick on 079 909 5458 or Hillcrest Conservancy chairman, George Victor, on 073 901 3902 or e-mail georgevic@telkomsa.net
