Apple of Sodom

General description

Perennial shrub c. 1 m tall. Stems and leaves are covered in sharp spines < 15 mm long. Leaves are < 9 x 7 cm, deeply lobed, alternate and dark green, with downy undersides. Flowers are purple, star-shaped and borne in clusters in September-May. Fruits are round, green-white berries that ripen to yellow.

What you need to know

Although apple of Sodom is not a legally declared pest plant, it may still be invasive in some situations. Consider lower-risk alternatives for your garden, such as native plants.

Habitats

Coastal areas, scrub margins, pasture, disturbed habitats.

Dispersal

Seeds dispersed by birds and attachment of fruit to animals and machinery.

Impact on environment

May displace native coastal vegetation. Unpalatable to livestock and selective grazing may displace valuable pasture species. Poisonous to animals and humans.

Control

Site Management

Follow up treated areas 3 times per year. Encourage natural regeneration of native plants or replant treated areas where possible after 2-3 treatments to establish dense ground cover and minimise reinvasion.

Recommended approaches

Physical control

Method: Dig out.

Plant parts requiring disposal: Seeds if practical.

Disposal options: Can be left on-site to rot down but check for regrowth.

Biocontrol

Biocontrol is currently not available for this species.

Community agrichemical control recommendations

No qualifications: Cut stump and paste freshly cut base of stems with double strength glyphosate gel.

Safety notes

Plant has thorns.