A hairy problem at Cultana
A species of cactus with no South Australian records in the past 15 years, has been found in the Gawler Ranges.
Hairspine cactus (Opuntia polyacantha), also known as Plains Prickly Pear, was discovered in April at Cultana, on land occupied by the Department of Defence.
Native to North America, there are just nine records of this species in South Australia – some in the State’s Far North and one previous record in the same vicinity of the latest finding. The last known record came in December 2009.
Opuntia polyacantha is a branching shrub that grows up to 2m high. It has light to mid green thin oblong pads up to 22cm long. It has yellow flowers and a deep red fruit that is sometimes found in chains.
The latest discovery was a single Hairspine cactus found growing in red dirt amongst shrubland and saltbush. It was found among an infestation of Riverina pear Opuntia elata.
All Opuntioid cacti are declared weeds in South Australia, meaning landholders have a responsibility to control infestations. The one exception to this rule is Opuntia ficus-indica (Indian fig).
There are a variety of herbicides available for Opuntioid cacti control. Recommended control methods are available online on the Primary Industries and Regions website.
According to the SAAL Biosecurity team, while it is concerning that a species that had not been reported for more than a decade was again present in the region, the vigilance of the Department of Defence Environment Team reporting declared weeds means the cactus can be controlled to ensure there is no further spread.
SAAL Landscape Board encourages all landholders to report cacti species when they are found and seek support in determining the best method of control.
Department of Defence Environment and Sustainability Manager Dr Leanne Rosser said the Department appreciated the working relationship with the SAAL Landscape Board to achieve good land management outcomes.
