Weed Alert - Be on the Lookout for Red Cestrum

Council’s Invasive Plants Officers are currently inspecting areas of the Dorrigo Plateau for the highly invasive toxic plant Red Cestrum (Cestrum elegans) following concerns from landholders.  Over the past 12 months Council has received reports of cattle dying suddenly following the ingestion of small amounts of the plant.

Mayor Dominic King advised, “These deaths can sometimes be disregarded as a snake bite or other injury when only one or two cattle die, however these incidents are becoming more common and to date a conservative number of 30 cattle deaths have been confirmed as Red Cestrum poisoning”.

Red Cestrum is a medium sized woody shrub growing to four metres which forms dense thickets, displacing native species. Red Cestrum can also readily invade high value agricultural land with graziers known to lock off prime paddocks in fear of Cestrum poisoning.  Red Cestrum is a unique species as it is highly adaptable to all conditions and performs well in high altitude cool climates.  It is part of the Solanaceae (nightshade) family which is known to have toxic properties.

Red Cestrum has hairy ovate leaves with red to purple hairs along the stems and develops clusters of red tubular flowers in late winter to spring. Fruits are produced in late spring to summer forming clusters of red berries. Seeds can stay viable for up to 8 years and can be spread by birds, flood waters and by leaving cut branches piled on the ground where it can easily take root.

“This plant has the potential to significantly alter the natural ancient environment on the Dorrigo Plateau as well as adversely affecting primary production” added the Mayor.

Under the Biosecurity Act 2015 all landholders have a General Biosecurity Duty to ensure all biosecurity risks, including weeds, are minimised, prevented or eliminated.

Council inspectors will work on the Plateau from the currently known core infestation outwards, in order to educate landholders in identification and control techniques as well as offer advice to aid in landscape scale control efforts. Professional weed control contractors will eradicate all infestations on public land in the core infestation area.

If you or anyone you know suspects you have seen this plant please contact Council’s Invasive Plants Team on 6655 7300.