2 November 2011

Tararua to be vigilant in Old Man’s Beard removal

It is that time of year again when Old Man’s Beard can become a concern within the Tararua Region. As summer draws near, Horizons are asking land owners to be vigilant and proactively remove the weed if found on their properties.

“There is a catch to spotting Old Man’s Beard,” says Horizons Environmental Management Officer, Elaine Iddon, “due to the mild spring it can be easily confused with the beautiful native clematis, Puawananga, which is flowering in tree canopies at the moment.”

“For those of you who are concerned you have Old Man’s Beard, if the vines have beautiful white flowers or lovely strong scented green/yellow flowers, don’t worry you have one of our native species”

The flowers of the native clematis will eventually form fluffy seed heads most people associate with Old Man’s Beard, but Old Man’s Beard has small white flowers in the summer months when the native vines have already gone to seed.

Another way to spot the difference between the two plants is the native clematis has three leaves off each leaf stalk and old mans beard has five (like a rose does). Horizons staff are available for advice on identifying these plants and can be reached on 0508 800 800, or check out the website www.horizons.govt.nz for descriptions and photos of all targeted weeds.

Horizons work with the public throughout the region to manage 69 targeted weeds, including Old Man’s Beard. Control of Old Man’s Beard is the responsibility of the landowner/occupier, but in some instances assistance is available to private landowners when it is invading high priority native bush remnants.

ENDS

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