Sweet pea shrub
| Botanical Name | Polygala myrtifolia |
|---|---|
| Family | Polygalaceae |
| Origin | South Africa |
Identification
Attractive much-branched shrub up to 2 m high. Leaves alternate, oval to 30 mm long. Flowers clustered in simple racemes at the ends of the branches. Flower pea-like and purple or veined purple, Jan-Dec.Habitats
Coastal fringes, occasionally shrubland. West coast cliffs near Karekare and Piha. Cliffs of Kawau Island.Impact to Biota and Ecosystems
Currently vigorously spreading along coastal cliff areas on west coast in Auckland. Displaces native coastal shrubs. Cliff communities are particularly at risk.Dispersal Routes, Vectors, Infestation Sources
Garden escape. Spreads by seed.Management
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Management |
|
| Physical Control |
Pull out by hand if plant numbers are few. Large plants can be cleared with a brushcutter. |
| Disposal | |
| Chemical Control |
(i) Spray with Tordon Gold or Tordon Brushkiller. (ii) Glyphosate at 100 ml in 10 litres of water plus 20 ml of Penetrant. |
|
Biological Control |
|
| Recommended Approach |
Hand pull if possible. |