Bulbil watsonia
| Botanical Name | Watsonia bulbillifera |
|---|---|
| Family | Iridaceae |
| Origin | South Africa |
Identification
In iris family, sometimes known as bugle lily. Robust clumps 1.5-2 m high. Large corm at base to 70 mm diameter with a thick tunic of fibres. Stems 2 cm, leaves sword-like, upright, 20-50 mm wide. Tubular flowers off long stem, red-brick to salmon-pink, up to 90 x 40 mm, Oct-Nov. Recognised by the clusters of red-brown cormils which replace the flowers in the lower part of the inflorescens, and by the tall stems. Garden cultivars also come in white, rose and pink.Habitats
Roadsides and parks, wasteplaces. Common throughout, especially near settlements. Sometimes forms dense stands.Impact to Biota and Ecosystems
Forms a dense mass of corms that would exclude regeneration of native plants. Forms pure colonies. A troublesome garden escape. Occasionally under open shrubland.Dispersal Routes, Vectors, Infestation Sources
Roadside dumping of garden waste. Corms and cormils dispersed in water and drains and along streams, in spoil used during road construction, and in mud on graders and other equipment. When aerial cormets are shed large colonies can be built up around the parent plant.Management
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Management |
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| Physical Control | |
| Disposal | |
| Chemical Control |
Spray with Metsulfuron + Penetrant. Rate - Handgun 35 g Metsulfuron + 100 mls Penetrant/100 litres water. Knapsack 5 g Metsulfuron + 10 mls Penetrant/10 litres water. |
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Biological Control |
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| Recommended Approach | Spray with Metsulfuron and Penetrant. Physical control is unlikely to succeed due to the many bulbs present. |