Madeira vine (Anredera cordifolia) is also called lamb’s tail. It originated in South America and was first introduced to Australia as an ornamental plant in gardens. Although no longer planted, people in older gardens could still have it growing over sheds or along fence-lines. Once it is in flower it is very obvious throughout Helensburgh and surrounding areas. It is listed as a Weed of National Significance.
Madeira vine is a twining vine with wide, fleshy, heart-shaped leaves that are 2 to 15cm long, with fragrant, cream-coloured flower spikes up to 30cm long in March/April. As stems mature, they develop aerial tubers that can become very large.
Dispersal: Madeira vine spreads via the aerial tubers that drop to the ground and form new plants, and root tubers. The vine may also spread via the dumping of garden waste in bushland.
Removal: Large vines that are smothering trees may need herbicide treatment. Smaller plants can be removed by hand. Aerial tubers that drop to the ground should be removed. All parts of Madeira vine may be put in your FOGO bin. Alternatively, put it in a black plastic bag and leave in the sun to rot down for some months, depending on the season.
For more information on removal, visit the NSW government's website.
Grow Me Instead
- Wonga vine, Pandorea pandorana – This local native vine will cover a fence or trellis. It has cream flowers with brown or purple streaks, although yellow and white flowered cultivars are available.
- Snake vine, Hibbertia scandens – This local vine has bright green leaves with large yellow flowers.
- Chinese star jasmine, Trachelospermum jasminoides – This evergreen vine from China has dark, glossy foliage and small, starry, white, spicy, nutmeg-scented flowers in summer. It is slow growing initially but later becomes vigorous. Variegated leaf forms are also available.
More info at www.helensburghlandcare.org.au or ring Merilyn on 0414 819 742
