pg . 38
NQ DRY TROPICS WEED FREE
SNAKEWEED
Stachytarpheta spp .
SNAKE WEED
SHRUBS
DESCRIPTION
This is a clump forming , perennial , wiry shrub that grows up to 1.5 metres high .
Leaves are 10 centimetres long and are arranged in pairs along the stem . They are oval and tapering at the base , turning into a winged stalk 1 to 3 centimetres long . The leaf blade is prominently veined and shallow toothed .
Flower colours vary from white to pale blue , dark blue to purple and pink to red . Each flower is a 5 millimetre wide tube opening into five petals . The lower part is sunk into a depression in the stalk . A pointed bract protects where the flower joins the spike . It flowers all year round . The snake skin appearance of the flower spike develops as the flowers dry and fall when the seeds develop beneath the ‘ scale ’.
Habitat It prefers roadsides , neglected areas , pastures and sugarcane .
Weed characteristics it can be invasive to pastures in wetter areas and where pasture is overstocked and grazed down to ground level . Even moderate grazing by horses can lead to significant increases in snake weed .
Dispersal soil disturbance such as tree clearing can allow snake weed to invade .
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
Foliar spraying with a broad-leaved selective herbicide is effective on this weed preferably prior to seed set . Snake weed can be out-competed by maintaining good grazing practises . Small isolated infestations can be physically removed .