Weed Potential

As a weedGolden Wreath Wattle is invasive in regions of southern and eastern Australia and South Africa. It invades coastal woodlands, heathlands and forests and along creek embankments.

This vigorous shrub grows in an open sunny to exposed position on well drained moderately fertile soils and tolerates dry periods once established. It produces masses of seed with in 2 to 3 years and the seedlings germinate quickly forming a strong root system or remain dormant for up to 10 years.

The shrub re-shoots from the base after low intensity fire or mechanical damage and as acacias fix nitrogen in the soil this additional fertility encourages seedling growth. The seeds are dispersed by bird`s uncontrolled selective pruning or water and in garden waste or soil.

Controlmethods include physically digging out seedlings checking that all the roots are removed. Shrubs can be ring barked or cut down and fruiting branches should be bagged and removed off site. Take care not to disturb the surrounding soil as this encourages dormant seeds to germinate.

They may also have the trunk scraped or drilled, then paint with a non-selective herbicide. Small plant or seedlings may also be sprayed with a non-selective herbicide from spring to autumn. A follow up spray will be required over the next 2 years.