Known as the ‘Purple Plague’, the highly invasive Miconia Weed could be set to take over Lismore.

Recently found near Tuntable Creek, it’s a weed that Richmond Landcare coordinator Hannah Rice-Hayes said she has heard horror stories about if is left to spread unchecked.

“It’s already happened in other parts of Australia and in Hawaii,” Hannah said. “If the incursion goes too far, we could lose entire hillsides - it’s a scary prospect.”

While there has only been one or two discovered so far, the Purple Miconia tree invades rainforest and competes with native vegetation for resources and reduces habitat for native fauna.

When established and in large numbers, Miconia can cause expansive hillside erosion due to its shallow root system.

“Luckily, it has clear identifying features that make it easy to spot, so people can go online and find out more about it – and help stop it before it spreads too far,” Hannah said.

The plant is easily identifiable by its very large leaves, between 20 and 80cm long, which are purple underneath.

Hannah said in the past, other weeds like Giant Devil’s Fig were able to infiltrate the local area without being stopped quickly enough.

“Now we are starting to see more popping up in Lismore,” she said. “It’s an easy plant to hate and I’m getting more enquiries about it.

“We tried to get a hold before it spread too far, but unfortunately. it’s identification makes it difficult. 

With spring just around the corner and more plants about to grow, flower and spread – now is the time to take action.

The discovered Miconia tree was already mature and fruiting, meaning seeds may have already been distributed by birds and mammals.

landowners and landcarers are asked to be vigilant in checking their properties and assessing for weeds, including Miconia.

This weed is classified as Prohibited Matter under the NSW Biosecurity Act 2015, meaning any known plants must be reported to your local authority, Rous County Council immediately on 66 233 800.

For more information scan the QR code which will direct you to a full description of the plant via the Weedwise app.