This invasive vine from Central and South America is one of Australia’s Weeds of National Significance (WONS)! Named for its sharp, claw-like tendrils, it clings to trees and climbs its way up to the canopy, causing serious damage to native flora.
While it was originally introduced for its beautiful yellow, trumpet-shaped flowers, Cats Claw Creeper is now an environmental threat. It smothers native trees, especially along waterways, threatening the vital services riparian zones provide—like clean water and habitat for wildlife.
What makes it so tough to get rid of? Cat’s Claw Creeper is a relentless invader, with underground tubers that survive even after the vines are cut, making it incredibly difficult to eradicate!
Here’s how we fight back:
- Mechanical control: Dig out the tubers, bag them, and let the sun “cook” them.
- Chemical control: Cut the vines as close to the base as possible and apply the right herbicides immediately.
- Biocontrol: Enter the Jewel Beetle and Tingid Bug—our tiny heroes! These bugs are host-specific and love feasting on Cats Claw Creeper.
Thank you to Poh (Yee Herng Poh) for this fabulous and informative post. Poh is currently undertaking a work placement at B4C as part of his Master’s in Environmental Management at UQ, and we are very lucky to have him!
