Green thumbs urged to watch out for garden escapees

Published on 18 March 2021

Cr Ellen Smith Yellow oleander in background.jpg

If you’re thinking of heading out to purchase plants for your garden this weekend, Rockhampton Regional Council is encouraging green thumbs to consider what they are putting into the ground and where it has come from.

Following some recent reports of invasive species being offered to the public via social media and local buy swap and sell sites, Planning and Regulation Councillor Ellen Smith is reminding residents to be mindful about the plants they are choosing.

“While some plants look very attractive in our gardens, they can be quite damaging to our environment and can potentially impact biodiversity in our Region,” Cr Smith said.

“Keen gardeners may like to propagate plants as a hobby to share and sell amongst the community, but it is often the case that people are simply not aware that certain plants are restricted.

“Some of the more ornamental varieties such as the Yellow oleander (Captain Cook), Basket asparagus fern, Creeping lantana and Singapore daisy, are just some of the species to look out for.

“It has also been reported that Bunny ears cacti has been sighted in some coastal areas of south east Queensland, New South Wales and very recently, on the Capricorn Coast.

“While we have not had reports of that species in the Rockhampton Region yet, the cases identified on the Capricorn Coast are a reminder that we do need to be vigilant.

“Unfortunately, there are many examples where invasive plants have taken hold of the natural environment.

“It is important to remember though, that we can all do our part to ensure that we don’t let any further invasive species escape our gardens and our properties.”

For more information on restricted plants visit https://www.daf.qld.gov.au/business-priorities/biosecurity/invasive-plants-animals/plants-weeds, or you can phone Customer Service on 4932 9000, or the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries on 13 25 23.