What a nasty find!

Posted 10 June 2020.

Beltana residents reported finding this grim looking weed in nearby Warioota Creek following late summer rainfall. Despite its very obvious appearance, the weed had previously been unreported in the North Flinders district.

It has been identified as a Purple-flowered Devils Claw (Proboscidea louisianica), native to North America. A low growing annual herb, this plant can grow up to 50cm high and produces a light purple flower and is easily identified by its large claw-shaped seed pods that can get pierce a sheep’s skin or get caught in their wool when they dry out.

There are very few records of its presence in our region so if you have seen this plant on your property, please contact your Community Landscape Officer on 8648 5300 or email saal.landscapeboard@sa.gov.au.