Willow (Salix spp.) weed management guide
Weeds of National Significance
Department of the Environment and Heritage and the CRC for Australian Weed Management, 2003
ISBN 1 9209 3218 6
PDF file
About the guide
Most species of willow are Weeds of National Significance. They are among the worst weeds in Australia because of their invasiveness, potential for spread, and economic and environmental impacts. They have invaded riverbanks and wetlands in temperate Australia, occupying thousands of kilometres of streams and numerous wetland areas.
Unlike most other vegetation, willows spread their roots into the bed of a watercourse, slowing the flow of water and reducing aeration. They form thickets which divert water outside the main watercourse or channel, causing flooding and erosion where the creek banks are vulnerable. Willow leaves create a flush of organic matter when they drop in autumn, reducing water quality and available oxygen, and directly threatening aquatic plants and animals. This, together with the amount of water willows use, damages stream health.
The replacement of native vegetation (eg river red gums) by willows reduces habitat (eg nesting hollows, snags) for both land and aquatic animals.
Millions of dollars are spent each year on willow control in southeastern Australia using chemical and/or mechanical techniques. In Victoria alone, the cost of willow management is about $2 million annually.
Weeping willow S. babylonica, and two hybrid species of pussy willow S. x calodendron and S. x reichardtii, are not Weeds of National Significance. Nevertheless, these species are of concern because they can hybridise with other species that would otherwise not produce seeds, so they should not be planted near other willows.
Contact details
Kelly Snell
National Coordinator Willows
Victorian Department of Primary Industries
PO Box 103, Geelong, Victoria 3220
Phone: (03) 5226 4625 Fax: (03) 5226 4725 Mobile: 0448 532 701
kelly.snell@dpi.vic.gov.au
| Extent in Australia | Potential distribution |
|---|---|
| NSW, VIC, ACT | Could further expand in current locations; plus SA, TAS |
See also
Before you download
Most publications are downloadable as PDF files. Adobe Acrobat Reader is required to view PDF files.
If you are unable to access a publication, please contact us to organise a suitable alternative format.
Key
Links to an another web site
Opens a pop-up window
Accessibility | Disclaimer | Privacy | © Commonwealth of Australia
Last updated: Thursday, 22-Oct-2009 15:24:57 EST
Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts
GPO Box 787
Canberra ACT 2601 Australia
+61 (0)2 6274 1111
DEW | DAFF | Australian Government
The weeds web site is jointly administered by the Australian Government departments of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry and the Environment and Water Resources