Witchweed
Striga spp.
Biosecurity Queensland must be contacted within 24 hours of sighting, call: 13 25 23.
family
Orobanchaceae (also placed in Scrophulariaceae)
origin
Exotic
declaration
Category 1 Restricted Matter (Biosecurity Act 2014)
Category 1 – must be reported to a Queensland Government inspector within 24 hours
Common names
Witchweed.
Native to semi-arid and tropical Africa, and recorded in more than 40 countries, 'witchweed' is a common name loosely applied to up to 30 different species in the genus Striga. All witchweed species are small, parasitic herbs. , Non-native witchweeds are currently not found in Australia but have the potential to become costly pests in Queensland. An opportunity exists to prevent their naturalisation here., Witchweed is a prohibited invasive plant under the Biosecurity Act 2014.
Impact
Impact
Heavy infestations can reduce grain crop yields by up to 70%. Causes export grain to be rejected. Affects maize, millet, legume crops, rice, sugar cane and sorghum. Has the potential to become serious pest if introduced or cultivated as ornamentals.USA has spent more than $250 million on eradication from the Carolinas. Striga are obligate parasites that draw nutrients, water and carbohydrates from the roots of their hosts.
Location
Location
Characteristics
Characteristics
Similar Species
Similar Species
Heavy infestations can reduce grain crop yields by up to 70%. Causes export grain to be rejected. Affects maize, millet, legume crops, rice, sugar cane and sorghum. Has the potential to become serious pest if introduced or cultivated as ornamentals.USA has spent more than $250 million on eradication from the Carolinas. Striga are obligate parasites that draw nutrients, water and carbohydrates from the roots of their hosts.
