Cape honeysuckle
Botanical Name
Tecomaria capensis
Family
Bignoniaceae (bignonia)
Also known as
Cape honeysuckle, Bignonia capensis, tecoma
Where is it originally from?
South Africa and Swaziland, and southern Mozambique
What does it look like?
Vigorous, rambling, semi-woody, evergreen (semi-evergreen in cold climates) perennial shrub (<4 m tall) that has been commonly used a hedge plant. Small green to dark green leaves are made up of 5-9 opposite, serrated, round, pointed leaflets (<15 cm long). Distinctive bright orange-scarlet tube-like flowers with deep yellow centres (<7.5 cm long, Apr-Aug) are followed by flattened, leathery capsules (6 cm long).
Why is it weedy?
Vigorous,scrambling growth habit, and the ability to form roots when stems touch the ground, allowing original sites to spread indefinitely. Tolerates salt air and drought, as well as exposed coastal conditions and shaded conditions
How does it spread?
Stems of mature plants may take root where they touch soil, producing new plants. Discarded cuttings may root. Viable seed rarely produced in New Zealand.
What damage does it do?
Forms dense thickets that outcompete and smother native species.
Which habitats is it likely to invade?
Found in the warmer areas of New Zealand where it is a common hedge plant. Prefers frost free, full sun areas.
What can I do to get rid of it?
1. Cut back and grub out roots.
2. Cut and stump paint: metsulfuron-methyl 600g/kg (5g/L).
3. Spray: metsulfuron-methyl 600g/kg (5g/10L).
CAUTION: When using any herbicide or pesticide, PLEASE READ THE LABEL THOROUGHLY to ensure that all instructions and directions for the purchase, use and storage of the product, are followed and adhered to.
What can I do to stop it coming back?
Avoid use as ornamental or keep strictly confined by trimming.
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