Environment & Waste Pests & weeds Weed of the month Weed of the Month - Mother of Millions

mother_of_millions_with_viewMother of millions (Bryophyllum species) are escaped ornamental plants from Madagascar.

As the name suggests one plant can reproduce a new generation from masses of embryoids (plantlets) that are formed on the leaf edges. These plantlets drop readily, develop roots, and establish quickly to form a new colony. This makes these plants fast spreading and hard to eradicate.

Mother of millions are erect, smooth, fleshy succulent plants growing to 1 metre or more in height and are often found as a garden plant in eastern Australia. They form tall flower spikes in winter with cluster of bell shaped flowers making it easy to find and identify.

Mother of millions has become a widespread weed of untended areas. They can spread from these areas, especially in flood and re-establish easily. They are adapted to dry conditions and can survive long periods of drought.

 

Mother of millions are toxic to cattle and are a declared environmental weed under Queensland Legislation, which mean land holders are responsible for their control.

 

 

 

Mother of millions weed

When out-breaks of Mother of millions occur, pull up plants by hand, bag them and dump in a bin whose contents are buried at councils refuse tip rather than recycling into mulch. Large infestations can be treated with herbicide, before using any herbicide always read the label carefully. All herbicides must be applied strictly in accordance with the directions on the label.
 
Mother of millions flowers in winter which makes May to August the best time to remove plants. 
 
 
 
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