Know your invasive plants

Chinese tamarisk (Tamarix chinensis) This evergreen shrub or tree grows to a height of 3–6m with a black or dark brown bark and feathery branches. It bears pale to purplish-pink flowers in clusters 15–70mm long at the end of thin, long twigs.

Invasive status

Category 1b invasive plant, which means that it must be removed from your property to avoid prosecution.

Why is it a problem?

This plant is a problem in the Western, Eastern and Northern Cape; Free State; Mpumalanga and Limpopo where it competes with and replaces indigenous species. It spreads by means of seed dispersal. Dense stands may significantly reduce stream flow and groundwater reserves.

CONTACT invasives.org.za