Khaki weed
Khaki weed, a rapidly spreading declared weed, has now been confirmed at multiple sites across the Riverland. The landscape board are calling on community to report sightings.
What is khaki weed?
Khaki weed is a summer-growing perennial herb that flourishes in warm conditions and with high rainfall or irrigation. It has very small and sharp spiny burrs which create hazards for agricultural industries and cause public nuisance when growing in lawns, parks and gardens. If found, the landscape board must be notified, and it must be destroyed.
This declared weed has reddish stems up to 60 cm long, fine silky hairs, and oval-shaped leaves with red-purple veins. It has a deep tap root that allows it to survive dry conditions. The plant produces small, white flowers that form prickly burrs, enabling this plant to spread by attaching to clothing, shoes, tyres and animal fur. Seeds can also spread via water or as contaminants in wool, hay, and grain. The weed colonises bare or disturbed areas, often in high-traffic zones like roadsides, ovals, public grassed areas, and irrigated blocks.
Where is khaki weed found?
Fresh khaki weed plants are emerging in high-use areas – particularly around Renmark, with smaller outbreaks recorded in Berri, Waikerie, Morgan and Cadell.
Recorded khaki weed outbreaks in the Murraylands and Riverland region*
What are the impacts of khaki weed?
Khaki weed poses a serious threat to agriculture, native vegetation, and recreational areas because of the hazards posed from the small, sharp spines, causing injury to animals and people, and downgrading wool quality. There is potential for livestock to be poisoned if large quantities of this weed are ingested. It can spread rapidly and the seeds can remain viable for up to 5 years.
What are my responsibilities as a landholder?
As a declared weed under the Landscape South Australia Act 2019, it is illegal to transport or sell khaki weed. Landholders are responsible for controlling khaki weed on their property.
Khaki weed is notifiable in South Australia and is subject to the following restrictions:
- Land managers must notify the landscape board of any infestation of the plant found on their land
- Land managers must take reasonable steps to kill plants and prevent their spread
- Plants must not be sold or traded in any way, including as a contaminant of anything
- Plants must not be transported on a public road, including as a contaminant of anything, and
- Plants must not be transported into the region.
How can khaki weed be controlled?
Effective control of khaki weed requires a long-term management plan using integrated techniques. Manual removal, such as hoeing and hand pulling, must ensure the entire tap root is removed. Herbicides can be used when the weed is actively growing, but consistent application is necessary. Good hygiene practices, such as cleaning machinery and restricting movement in infested areas, are crucial to prevent spread.
How can the landscape board support landholders?
The landscape board can provide advice on control techniques and management plans for khaki weed. They offer resources and support to help landholders effectively manage and eradicate this weed.
What to do if you suspect a khaki weed outbreak
If you suspect a khaki weed outbreak, contact your local landscape board office for advice and assistance. They can help with identification and provide guidance on the best control methods.
