Cobaea scandens
Cathedral bells
Family: Cobaeaceae
Origin: Central and South America
Regional Pest Management Plan (RPMP) status
- National Pest Plant Accord Species
- Whole region — Progressive containment, council delivered
General description
Perennial woody vine. Tendrils are clawed. Flowers are trumpet-shaped, purple and borne in spring. Seed capsules are < 95 cm long and ripen in autumn. Seeds are papery and winged.
What you need to know
To help protect our environment:
- You must not breed, distribute, release or sell cathedral bells. As cathedral bells is a National Pest Plant Accord species, these restrictions apply within the Auckland region and across the whole of New Zealand.
- You must not plant cathedral bells within the Auckland region.
Auckland Council will manage cathedral bells at all sites where it is known to occur.
If you see cathedral bells anywhere in the Auckland region, please report it to Auckland Council at pestfree@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz.
Habitats
Riparian margins, forest, scrub.
Dispersal
Seeds dispersed by water, wind and gravity. Vegetative spread from layering and tubers. Human-mediated dispersal through deliberate plantings.
Impact on environment
Smothers native vegetation and prevents seedling establishment.
Control
Recommended approaches
Do not attempt to undertake control of this species. Please report to Auckland Council.
;Caution: When using any herbicide or pesticide please read the label thoroughly to ensure that all instructions and safety requirements are followed.