Asparagus drepanophyllus and A. umbellatus
Asparagus species
Also known as:
Asparagus fern
Family: Liliaceae
Origin: South Africa
Regional Pest Management Plan (RPMP) status
- Whole region — Eradication
- Hauraki Gulf Controlled Area Notice pest
General description
Perennial herbs with fleshy rhizomes. Fruit is c. 6 mm in diameter. A. drepanophyllus is leafless at flowering time, flowers are white/cream with strong odour and stems are thorny.
What you need to know
To help protect our environment:
- You must not breed, distribute, release or sell A. drepanophyllus or A. umbellatus within the Auckland region.
- You must not plant A. drepanophyllus or A. umbellatus within the Auckland region.
Auckland Council will control A. drepanophyllus and A. umbellatus at all sites where they are known to occur.
If you see A. drepanophyllus or A. umbellatus anywhere in the Auckland region, please report it to Auckland Council at pestfree@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz.
Habitats
Roadsides, gardens, cliffs, rocky outcrops, shrubland, woodland.
Dispersal
Seed dispersed by birds.
Impact on environment
Potential to be highly invasive on cliffs, rocky outcrops, shrubland, woodland and in coastal ecosystems.
Control
Recommended approaches
Do not attempt to undertake control of this species. Please report to Auckland Council.
Caution: When using any herbicide or pesticide please read the label thoroughly to ensure that all instructions and safety requirements are followed.
