NQ DRY TROPICS WEED FREE pg . 31
GREWIA
Grewia asiatica
DESCRIPTION
This is a large scraggly spreading perennial shrub which grows from 1 to 4 metres high . It has long slender drooping branches ; the young branches are densely covered with hairs . It is resistant to fire .
Leaves are broadly heart-shaped and pointed at the apex , 18 centimetres long , prominently veined ; 5 main veins from the base . They have serrated edges with a whitish fuzz on the underside . Leaves are arranged on alternate areas of the stem .
Flowers are small orange-yellow , about 1 centimetre long on short stalks , clustered in the leaf axils , each with numerous stamens . It flowers during autumn and winter .
Fruit are in clusters of round fleshy purple to black fruit , each with 1 or 2 hard seeds .
Habitat the dry grassy woodlands in north Queensland and in Townsville , it was introduced during World War II in military camps .
Weed characteristics it chokes out natural woodlands . Dispersal by people , birds , animals and floods .
BIOSECURITY MATTER
This species is not listed under Queensland Legislation however it may be listed under local government law and control is highly recommended .
HOW TO ACT
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 . Control should be carried out prior to seed set with follow up monitoring and control of emergent growth important .
SHRUBS GREWIA