Groundsel Bush is a highly invasive shrub that produces massive quantities of wind-dispersed seeds. Each female plant can produce over a million seeds per year. It colonises coastal areas, wetlands, and disturbed sites, quickly forming dense stands that crowd out native vegetation.
How to Identify
- Shrub growing 1-4 metres tall
- Greyish-green wedge-shaped leaves with coarse teeth
- Dense clusters of small white/cream flowers
- Distinctive white fluffy seed heads (like cotton wool)
- Seeds dispersed by wind over long distances
Where It Grows
Coastal areas, wetlands, disturbed sites, roadsides, and pastures. Tolerates salt spray and periodic flooding.
Environmental Impact
- Produces enormous quantities of wind-dispersed seeds
- Rapidly colonises bare or disturbed ground
- Can form monocultures in coastal wetlands
- Reduces pasture productivity
- Toxic to livestock if consumed in large quantities
Control Methods
- Hand pull small plants before seeding
- Cut and paint or foliar spray larger plants
- Timing critical - treat before seed set (autumn)
- Large infestations may require mechanical clearing
- Follow-up essential due to seed bank
- Replant treated areas promptly
Seasonal Activity
Flowers and sets seed in autumn (March-May). Seeds disperse widely in late autumn.
Professional Weed Control Services
Our experienced team can help you manage and remove invasive weeds from your property. We use forestry mulching and targeted treatments for effective, long-lasting results.