Khaki weed on the move: community urged to help stop its spread

With warmer weather and late rainfall encouraging new growth, fresh plants are emerging in high-use areas – particularly around Renmark, with smaller outbreaks recorded in Berri, Waikerie, Morgan and Cadell.

Murraylands and Riverland Landscape Board District Officer, Bonnie Leonard, said this invasive weed poses a high risk to native vegetation, horticultural crops, livestock, pets and people. 

“Khaki weed spreads quickly. Its burr-like seed heads attach easily to clothing, tyres, machinery and animal fur, so it can rapidly spread through towns, along roadsides and onto private land. Its deep taproot and ground-creeping nature allows it to outcompete perennial pastures and native vegetation for water and soil nutrients.” Bonnie said.

“We’re seeing khaki weed emerging in high-traffic areas including football ovals, busy roadsides where vehicles frequently pull over, and horticultural properties where machinery such as harvesters are used. The weed has also been found at golf courses, caravan parks and popular tourist attractions.” Bonnie added.

Working with approved contractors, the district team are currently surveying known and emerging infestation sites and undertaking control works, including herbicide application and manual removal. 

Khaki weed is declared under the Landscape South Australia Act 2019, meaning all infestations must be destroyed as soon as they are found.

Community members who spot khaki weed are encouraged to report it to the landscape board to help prevent further spread and long-term impacts across the region.

Landholders with khaki weed present on their properties can contact their local district team for advice on identification and control options or head to www.landscape.sa.gov.au/mr/pest-plants-animals/pest-plants/khaki-weed

Berri office (08) 8580 1800

This project is supported by the Murraylands and Riverland Landscape Board with funding from the landscape levies.