Invasive Weed Alert for Uralla Shire
Published on 01 September 2025
Uralla Shire residents are urged to stay vigilant following an alert has been issued from Local Land Services about the potential arrival of Sticky Florestina (Florestina tripteris) in our region. This invasive weed is suspected to be spreading south via livestock transportation, posing a serious threat to local pastures and biodiversity.
Originally introduced to Australia in the 1960s, Sticky Florestina has taken hold in parts of Queensland, with over 60,000 hectares already affected. Now, with livestock movements into New South Wales, Uralla’s rural landscapes could be at risk.
What to Look For:
- A fast-growing annual plant from the daisy family, up to 1 metre tall
- Covered in sticky white hairs that cling to animals, vehicles, and clothing
- Small white flowers, often mistaken for Parthenium
- Thrives in disturbed areas like roadsides and overgrazed paddocks
Why It Matters
Sticky Florestina poses a serious threat to Uralla Shire’s agricultural landscape. The plant is toxic to livestock and unpalatable, making it a risk to animal health and grazing productivity. It spreads rapidly through sticky seeds that easily attach to animals, vehicles, and machinery, allowing it to travel long distances undetected. Once established, it is extremely difficult to control, with seeds remaining viable in the soil for up to two years.
What You Can Do
Residents are encouraged to inspect their properties, especially if they have recently received livestock from Queensland, where the weed is already widespread. If you spot any suspicious plants, report them immediately to Uralla Shire Council for identification and guidance. To prevent further spread, make sure to thoroughly clean vehicles, machinery, and clothing after visiting areas that may be infested.
For more information download a factsheet HERE(PDF, 4MB) or contact Biosecurity Officer Andrew Scott on 6778 6300 or email ascott@uralla.nsw.gov.