Moth plant

Botanical Name	Araujia sericifera
Family	Asclepiadaceae
Origin	S. Brazil, Argentina

Identification

Occasionally also called milk weed and kapok. Woody climbing plant with milky sap. Stems covered in very fine hairs, leaves dark green and 30-120mm x 15-60 mm in size. Flowers white, up to 4 on one shoot, Dec-May. Visiting insects are trapped and killed by the secretions in the flower. The large oval green fruit (follicle) is distinctive.

Habitats

Gardens, sand dunes, waste places, plantations hedge rows and other modified habitats. Present in mainland reserves and several offshore islands.

Impact to Biota and Ecosystems

Smothers existing vegetation and can form huge patches and colonies. A threat to islands.

Dispersal Routes, Vectors, Infestation Sources

Seeds dispersed by wind. Produces many seeds.

Management

Management
Physical Control	Dig out.
Disposal	All pods, should be collected and destroyed.
Chemical Control	Host plants will be affected by herbicide used. Metsulfuron Rate - Knapsack 5 g Metsulfuron + 10 mls Penetrant/10 litres water.
Biological Control
Recommended Approach	Use the cut stem approach for small infestations. Spray large infestations with Metsulfuron. Be aware of herbicide impact on host plants. Follow up will be required.

Further Comment

The public should be encouraged to eradicate this plant where it occurs on private land as it produces many windborne seeds.

The white sap can be irritating on the skin, so it is best to avoid contact.