Whilst we talk a lot about the many species that can be found at our projects; unfortunately not all of them are welcome.

As part of our collaborative efforts with our conservation partner, Cassinia, we provide detailed information on pests and weeds present across these properties, supporting our shared commitment to preserving these precious habitats for the long term.

A prime example of this work in action can be found at our Coorong Lakes project.

Across much of southern Australia, especially in the south-eastern states, African Boxthorn (Lycium ferocissimum) is a major issue for both farmers and conservation managers alike and tackling this Weed of National Significance (WONS) is a priority across the Coorong Lakes property.

Aptly named, this woody weed is indeed ‘ferocious’, often forming impenetrable spiny thickets that can invade remnant bushland. Its woody spines can even puncture a car tyre!

African Boxthorn was first introduced into Australia from the Cape Province of South Africa in the mid-1800s for growing hedgerows, but it has progressively spread across the landscape. infesting degraded and unmanaged ground. 

At the Coorong the fight to control this noxious weed sits predominantly in the hands of the dynamic duo of Robert and Adonis – an unlikely father-in-law combo who have worked consistently to remove this threat from the property.

The management of the African Boxthorn on the property requires cutting the stem and immediately treating the cut stem with herbicide. Sometimes large plants re-shoot and have to be re-treated. Treated plants are left in-situ, even when dead, as the spiny branches can provide protection for lizards and small birds.

These noxious woody weeds are a member of the tomato family (Solanaceae) and can reach up to 5 metres in height, with the many-branched thorny stems reaching the ground.

The leaves are oval-shaped, bright green and clustered along stems; flowers are white to purple with 5 petals; the ripe fruit an orange-red berry (poisonous to humans, but eaten by foxes and birds). African Boxthorn extends in range from the cool winter climate of Tasmania through to the warm sub-tropics of Queensland.

As African Boxthorn is classified as a Weed of National Significance, its removal is a priority action in relevant Conservation Management Plans. It is also actively managed at our Budgerum Grasslands and Alleena projects, as well as at the Coorong.

Learn more about these three projects through their annual reports to gain a deeper understanding of what other management and monitoring is taking place to ensure these properties are preserved and protected, forever.