Environmental Weeds in Sydney North

• Noxious Weeds
• Other Significant Environmental Weeds
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Weed control

• Hand removal techniques
• Biocontrol

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Prickly Pears

Botanical Name: Opuntia species except O. ficus-indica
Noxious Weed Category:
CLASS 4 in NSW


Source: CoastCare - Attack of the Killer Weeds

 

Description:
Originating in America, Prickly Pears are a shallow rooted perennial forming large clumps. Leaves rarely seen.

stricta: Low growing cactus up to 1.5 metres tall made up of flattened segments or pads 10 - 30 cm long and 7 - 20 cm across. Areoles have a cluster of small brown hairs and up to 11 spines 10 - 50 mm long.

aurantiaca: Low, almost prostrate unless supported by other plants. Green/red and flattened segments 2 - 4 cm in diameter and 4 - 10 cm long. Areoles have small white hairs and 4 spines.

Yellow, flowering in spring.

Green fruit, ripening to red, up to 50mm long in summer. Seeds survive for up to 20 years.

Dispersal:
Animals, water, birds.

Impact on Bushland:

Control:

Manual:  
Chemical: Please contact your local control authority for advice on chemical control.

Similar Species:

Suggested Alternatives:

References: