The hunt for an orange invader
Published on 12 January 2023
The hunt is on again for one of kunany/Mt Wellington’s must unwelcome visitors – the orange hawkweed.
It may look pretty and harmless enough, but this highly invasive alpine weed originating from Europe, is competing with native grasses and herbs and can overtake entire alpine and sub-alpine ecosystems.
Interstate it has been the focus of a major eradication program in NSW and Victoria after becoming the scourge of the Australian Alps.
The hawkweed has been identified in Fern Tree and is the focus of a renewed push by the City of Hobart to eradicate it before the weed gets out of control.
The City is working with local residents to determine if orange hawkweed is present on their properties.
If the weed is found, the City will work with residents to eradicate it.
“Don’t let looks deceive you, this is a nasty visitor and one we don’t want on our iconic mountain,” Hobart Lord Mayor Anna Reynolds said.
“If you are a runner, walker, mountain bike rider or day tripper to kunanyi/Mt Wellington please keep an eye out for orange hawkweed over summer and report any possible sightings, especially around the Springs visitor area.”
City of Hobart Sustainability in Infrastructure portfolio chair Cr Bill Harvey thanked the Fern Tree community for its support of this program.
“But we must remain vigilant and continue to keep an eye out for this orange pest,” Cr Harvey said.
“The hawkweed is easiest to identify when it flowers through January and February which is why we are keen to promote this eradication program now.
“If you do spot an orange hawkweed plant, it is vitally important you do not disturb it as this can accidentally help spread the weed.”
Orange hawkweed is clearly identifiable by its distinctive orange flowers and hairy stems and leaves.
It closely resembles the common lawn weeds dandelion and hawkbit but is far more invasive.
There are several ways you can report your sighting:
Fill out our online form.
Phone 03 6238 2711 during office hours.
Email a photo of the flower to coh@hobartcity.com.au and include a description of where you found it. Please include your phone number in case we need to get more information about your sighting.