Know your alien invasive plant: Lollipop climber

THIS week, Hillcrest Conservancy takes a look at the Lollipop climber, as part of its series of articles on alien invasive plants, to help the community to identify and eradicate them from their gardens.

The Lollipop climber’s scientific name is the Diplocyclos palmatus (Cucurbitaceae), but it is also known as the striped cucumber or marble vine. It is easily identified when the fruit appear on the vine which will climb into the highest tree if given a chance. This climber will completely cover and even destroy a tree or fence that it may be growing on, due to its weight.

What does it look like? It is a perennial, climber with thin hairless stems which become thickened and white dotted on the ridges when older and grows up to 6m high. Its small white or greenish-yellow flowers are produced from March to April. The Lollipop climber bears green fruits with white blotched stripes, later turning red-orange colour- resembles a lollipop, hence the common name.

What is its invasive status? It is originally from Australia however has been classified as an NEMBA – Category 1A under the invasive status in South Africa.

Where is it a problem? It has been recorded as a huge problem in KwaZulu-Natal in Pinetown, Kloof and Pietermaritzburg. This species is spreading rapidly and can now be found throughout the Upper Highway area. Should you find any infestations of this species you should contact your local conservancy or municipal parks authority.

How does it spread? The Lollipop climber is spread by fruits and seeds and is seen as a problem because it forms extremely dense infestations.

Does the plant have any uses? In India lollipop climber is used for its medicinal properties in the treatment of rheumatic pain, cough, flatulence, and various skin diseases.

Contact Ian Pattrick on 079 909 5458 or Hillcrest Conservancy chairman, George Victor, on 073 901 3902 or e-mail georgevic@telkomsa.net