SKUNK VINE

Paederia foetida

REPORT THIS WEED (02) 6623 3800

Prevent This Weed

Description A perennial, invasive, foul-smelling, semi-woody vine. It grows quickly and can smother native vegetation. Twines upward and creeps across the ground.

Leaves Opposite, pointed tip, lance-shaped to 14 cm long and 5 cm wide. Fringed with sharp, stiff hairs. The upper surface is medium to dark green, while the lower surface is lighter in colour. Veins especially lined with transparent, bristly hairs.

Flowers White to cream with a dark purplish-red centre, 7–11 mm long, hairy outer surface.

Fruit Glossy, round, 4–6 mm wide, light brown to yellow or reddish-brown.

Stems Woody. Can root when in contact with soil.

Roots Roots at nodes when creeping along the ground.

Dispersal Seed and vegetative reproduction from stem fragments dispersed by waterways, contaminated soil, dumped garden waste or attached to animals and machinery. Seed also dispersed by wind and birds and other animal eating and excreting the seed. Deliberately cultivated for food, medicine and ornamental purposes.

Confused with Native species Wonga vine (Pandorea pandorana).

Control Please do not attempt to treat or dispose of this weed yourself. Call (02) 6623 3800 if you see this plant anywhere in the Far North Coast region.