Weed alert! Post-flood weed risk on the Far North Coast
Kidney-leaf mud plantain (Heteranthera reniformis) is an aquatic weed that was brought to Australia as a decorative pond plant. It has since washed into our freshwater waterways where it slows the movement of water, impedes the growth of native water plants, and reduces the food supply for aquatic life.
Rous County Council Weed Biosecurity Officers are noticing an increase in kidney-leaf mud plantain infestations in the Lismore LGA since the 2022 floods.
Native to the Americas, it grows on the surface of shallow water, less than 15cm deep, and has distinctive glossy green kidney-shaped leaves that are 1-4cm long and 1-5cm across.
Kidney-leaf mud plantain can spread through the dispersal of seeds through wind and water, but its primary means of dispersal is through the movement of stem fragments downstream.
Photos: Dunoon and District Gazette
How can you help? It is always a good idea to check ponds, creeks, and dams for kidney-leaf mud plantain. Like with all weeds, is it always important to check your boots and vehicle tyres when leaving areas known to have weed infestations.
If you have seen kidney-leaf mud plantain – please call Rous County Council on (02) 6623 3800 or use their webform www.rous.nsw. gov.au/report-a-weed. For further information, visit: rous.nsw.gov.au/ publications.
This article appeared in the Dunoon and District Gazette, October – November 2023.
