‘Pretty’ pest plant in councils’ sights

The pretty but invasive Taiwan cherry tree can no longer be propagated, sold or planted in Nelson and Tasman.

Taiwan cherry, or Prunus campanulata, has been given eradication status in the Tasman Nelson Regional Pest Management Plan 2019-29, which came into force on July 1.

Tasman District Council biosecurity and biodiversity coordinator Paul Sheldon said landowners must report the presence of Taiwan cherry and its cultivars on their land within five working days of spotting it, and must organise its removal.

‘‘Our biosecurity staff will be out and about helping residents stop this pest tree from taking over our landscapes. It’s been spreading through the Richmond Ranges and other areas of scrubland,’’ Sheldon said.

‘‘It’s a pest because it forms dense, long-lived stands that choke out our native vegetation.’’

Taiwan cherry is also known as bell-flowered cherry or Formosan cherry. ‘‘It is very pretty,’’ Sheldon said.

‘‘For those who have planted them as specimens, our biosecurity staff will provide replacement trees up to the value of $135 once we’re satisfied the pest tree or trees are gone. We’re also willing to consider a financial contribution towards their removal on a case-by-case basis.’’

Taiwan cherry grows easily from seed, which can be spread by birds. Sheldon said eradicating it was a ‘‘significant challenge’’. The initial focus would be on areas at a greater risk of infestation, such as rural properties along the edge of hills.

Other plants with eradication status in the regional pest management plan include African feather grass, boneseed (outside Nelson city’s Port Hills), boxthorn, climbing spindleberry, Egeria and entire marshwort.

People can report the presence of Taiwan cherry by calling the council on 03 543 8400.