Wanted: pest plant
Noogoora bur (Xanthium occidentale) is an upright weed that grows up to 1.5 metres. It’s usually found in pasture and wasteland, and has large serrated leaves that are dark green on top and pale green underneath. The fruit are covered in many little hooks (commonly referred to as “burs”). The burs can attach to livestock fleece and coats, making them unmarketable. Noogoora bur is unpalatable to stock and therefore reduces available grazing area.
Seen it? Contact us: 0800 496 734, pest.plants@gw.govt.nz