Media release no.
Two stands of Parkinsonia were discovered by a CALM officer growing in a gutter on the side of the road. The plants, which had grown to a height of about 1.5 metres tall, have now been removed by protection officers from Agriculture Western Australia. Parkinsonia is a native of tropical America and was introduced into northern Australia as an ornamental plant because of its attractive foliage and drought tolerance. In addition to its ability to choke waterways, the weed has long, sharp spines that pose a threat to grazing animals. Entomologist Bill Woods, who worked on the biological control of this weed, believes it could become a major problem if it became established in the agricultural area.