Witchweed

Striga spp.

Schedule 2 Restricted Matter

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 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.

Leaf arrangement:Simple
Leaf form:Alternate
E7444208-6630-423C-836F-46BD5EC41748Multi-coloured
Green

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

Control Methods