Report sightings of the pompom weed
Residents are urged to report alien invasive plants.
The pompom weed, scientifically known as campuloclinium macrocephalum, is a plant categorised as an invasive alien species which aggressively invades indigenous grasslands in South Africa.
Amanzimtoti residents are urged to report the sighting of an invasive alien plant currently in sprout throughout the Durban area.
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“This is one of many invasive weeds rapidly becoming the most serious threat to grasslands in South Africa. Initially it establishes itself in disturbed sites such as roadsides, but then invades natural grasslands, open savanna and wetlands” said Illovo Nursey owner, Adele Jolliffe.
It is a perennial herb from the Asteraceae family that originates from Central and South America. It has dense clusters of pink, fluffy flower heads and leaves which are concentrated on the base of the plant.
The light green leaves are lance-shaped, with serrated margins. The pompom weed flowers between December and March and spreads easily by seed but can also regenerate from underground rhizomes.
If you see this plant anywhere in the Durban area, note the location (GPS coordinates, if possible) and take a picture of the plant (if you can). Send the information to Nomzamo Mncube at nomzamo.mncube@durban.gov.za or call 031 322 4312.
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