Pompom Weed (Campuloclinium macrocephalum)
This plant is a categorised invasive alien species, which aggressively invades indigenous grasslands in South Africa. It is a perennial herb from the Asteraceae family that originates from central and south America. It has dense clusters of pink, fluffy flower heads and leaves which are concentrated on the base of the plant. The light green l eaves a re lance-shaped, with serrated margins. Pompom Weed flowers between December and March. It spreads easily by seed but can also regenerate from underground rhizomes.
| Known localities / distribution | M13 and N3 corridor between Sherwood and Assagay, Drummond, Hammarsdale, Waterfall, iNanda Mountain (Amatata), Oakford, Verulam, Buffelsdraai, Roosfontein. |
| Perceived threat potential | Very high. It is a severe transformer of grasslands, savanna and wetlands. Invaded agricultural areas can suffer major economic impacts. The plant is poisonous to humans and livestock. |
| Other known cases of invasion | Most prominent in Gauteng but present in all provinces except Western and Northern Cape. |
| Biology /notes on reproductive capabilities | Copious seed production, regrowth after mowing, glandular trichomes on seeds, possibly containing allelochemicals. |
| Control methods | Early detection and control is essential to minimise economic impacts. Herbicides known to be efficacious include Brush-off®, Access 240® and Climax®. Biocontrol research is under development; mechanical control is usually ineffective. |
| Priority | Very high. |
| Practicality and ease of control | Timing of herbicide application and follow-up is important for effective control. |
eThekwini Municipality and its partners seek to eradicate pompom weed (Campuloclinium macrocephalum) from the municipal area. We will provide assistance for control of this plant, but need your help finding it. Please circulate this notice to your neighbourhood-watch group, and/or conservancy members. Thank you.
If you see this plant please note the location (GPS coordinates, if possible) and contact Nomzamo Mncube on nomzamo.mncube@durban.gov.za/ 031 322 4312
