THIS week, Hillcrest Conservancy takes a look at the Madeira vine as part of its series of articles on alien invasive plants to help the community to identify and eradicate them from their gardens.
The Madeira vine’s scientific name is Anredera cordifolia but it is also known as Lamb’s tails, Mgnonette vine, Jalap and Potato vine.
Description: This very misleading plant seems to look fairly innocent to start of with. Soft lush green heart shaped leaves and attractive Lamb’s tail flowers could lead you to believe that this plant is completely innocent. However, left to grow to an adult plant it will leave you in no doubt as to why it has been placed on the alien invasives lists. Along the stem you will notice warty like nodes which are very distinctive.
Where does this species come from? Originally from South America this plant has now found its way around the world and very few continents and even small islands can claim to be free of this plant.
Where in SA is it a problem? All high rain fall areas of South Africa will be a suitable habit for this alien invader.
What is its invasive status in South Africa? NEMBA category 1b list.
Why is it a problem? It grows into a have creeper that twines it’s way up the tallest tree. Due to the amount of foliage it will not hesitate in smothering large trees and bringing them down.
How does it spread? The large number of tuber which you find on the stem are used to spread this plant, it can however be spread by leaves and pieces of stem as well as its aggressive tubers which spread underground.
This species should not be trifled with as once it is established it will give you a lifetime of unhappiness.
Does the plant have any uses? It was originally introduced as an ornamental plant but is very difficult to control.
Contact Ian Pattrick on 079 909 5458 or Hillcrest Conservancy chairman, George Victor, on 073 901 3902 or e-mail georgevic@telkomsa.net
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