Alisma plantago-aquatica
Water plantain
Family: Alismataceae
Origin: Africa, Australia, Eurasia
Regional Pest Management Plan (RPMP) status
- Aotea — Eradication
- Hauraki Gulf Controlled Area Notice pest
General description
Emergent, perennial aquatic herb < 1 m tall. Leaves are basal, < 10 x 20 cm and broad ovate, with a long petiole. Flowers are pale lilac/pink/red/white and borne on large, multi-branched panicles in summer. Achenes are held in a dense circular head and produced in summer-autumn.
What you need to know
To help protect our environment:
- You must not breed, distribute, release or sell water plantain on Aotea/Great Barrier Island group.
- You must not plant water plantain on Aotea/Great Barrier Island group.
Auckland Council will control water plantain at all sites within the Aotea/Great Barrier Island group where it is known to occur.
If you see water plantain anywhere on Aotea/Great Barrier Island group, please report it to Auckland Council at pestfree@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz.
Habitats
Still or slow-moving water body margins, wetlands.
Dispersal
Seeds dispersed by waterfowl and water movement.
Impact on environment
Potential to displace native species. Impedes water flow and traps debris, causing silt build-up. May exacerbate flooding.
Control
Site Management
Consider engaging an aquatic pest plant control operator. Contact Auckland Council for control options.
Recommended approaches
Do not attempt to undertake control of this species on Aotea/Great Barrier Island group. Please report to Auckland Council if seen on Aotea/Great Barrier Island group.
Physical control
Method: Dig out.
Plant parts requiring disposal: All parts.
Disposal options: Remove to greenwaste or landfill.
Biocontrol
Biocontrol is currently not available for this species.
Community agrichemical control recommendations
Certified Handler/Experienced agrichemical user: Foliar spray of 100 ml glyphosate green per 10 L of water.
;Caution: When using any herbicide or pesticide please read the label thoroughly to ensure that all instructions and safety requirements are followed.
