pg . 18
NQ DRY TROPICS WEED FREE
CHINEE APPLE
Ziziphus mauritiana
CHINEE APPLE
TREES
DESCRIPTION
This is a thorny , spreading deciduous tree which can grow up to 8 metres high and 10 metres wide , with densely branched stems . Branches are dense and zigzagged with a leaf and a thorn at each angle . Leaves are oval but uneven at the base . They have minutely toothed margins and are glossy green above and almost white beneath . Leaves are arranged on alternate areas of the stem . Flowers are small , greenish-white and arranged in clusters in the leaf axils and have an unpleasant smell . It can flower all year round . Fruits are round and edible . They are pale yellow or orange when ripe , and similar in size and structure to a cherry . Habitat in the drier parts of the tropics , this tree can be widespread in cleared and exposed areas , along watercourses , and areas of sparse vegetation . It occurs in a wide range of soil types but does not establish successfully under the canopy of other trees . Weed characteristics form dense thickets which restrict stock management , access , and land productivity . This tree will regrow from root parts left behind if removed at ground level . Dispersal occurs mainly via birds and feral pigs .
BIOSECURITY MATTER
Restricted . This species is Category 3 Restricted matter under Queensland Legislation .
HOW TO ACT
Mechanical control is most cost effective for initial removal of dense infestations , but this is not advisable on steep slopes or other areas prone to erosion . Windrowing and burning to remove the debris will allow for regeneration of natural vegetation . Cut stump or basal barking is effective for isolated established plants . Young plants can be physically removed . Foliar spraying is most effective when plant is actively growing . Use a broad-leaved selective herbicide to avoid damage to grasses . Control should be carried out prior to seed set with follow up monitoring and control of emergent growth important .