Buddleja. Buddleja madagascariensis
Native to Madagascar
Recognised fairly recently as an invader in the coastal ecosystem. Buddleja forms massive dense thickets which become impenetrable. Mostly a problem on the far north coast with some isolated patches around the Sydney area. Invades hind-dunes and adjacent bushland usually close to urban development.
Form: Woody climber forming dense thickets 1.5 - 4m high.
Flower : Yellow, orange or salmon coloured, sweetly scented. Winter to spring.
Fruit/Seed: Blue to violet berry.
Control: WARNING: Care should be taken when removing this species as it can cause throat allergies.Manual control is difficult.
Chemical controls are available. It is important not to come in direct contact with the leaves. Spray them first with a herbicide. When they have fallen off, cut the stump off at ground level and paint with herbicide (leaves can take up to 3 months to fall off). Do not leave fragments on the ground as they may re-establish.