Landholders and community members are being asked to remain on the lookout for Rubber Vine, Cryptostegia grandiflora, with two infestations of the invasive weed located to the west of the Paroo River near Wanaaring.
Confirmation of Rubber Vine comes after Western Local Land Services, in conjunction with stakeholder Astrebela Agribusiness and NRM Consulting, undertook inspections of high risk pathways and sites in the Unincorporated area over a two week period.
The two infestations have been contained to chook pens and dog kennels, mainly due to the dry conditions in the Western region, however, the risk of spread to areas east is high, and could cause severe damage in higher rainfall areas of north-eastern NSW.
Anyone suspecting that have this plant on their property should contact their local Shire Weeds Officer, Local Land Services on 1300 795 299, or the NSW Department of Primary Industries Biosecurity helpline 1800 680 244.
Fast facts on Rubber Vine
Rubber Vine is a many-stemmed shrub that can climb 30 metres into tree canopies or grow to an unsupported height of 3 metres.
Rubber Vine stems are greyish brown with smooth bark and the stem exudes a milky sap when broken.
There are two forms of stems with the first being a leaf-bearing, branched stem and the other a longer, unbranched 'whip' with fewer leaves, able to extend onto nearby vegetation.
Rubber Vine reproduces by seed with a hectare of Rubber Vine capable of producing millions of seeds each year, with 95% of these seeds viable.
