African Boxthorn (Lycium ferocissimum)
Description of this w**d
African boxthorn, (Lycium ferocissimum), was introduced from southern Africa. African Boxthorns were originally planted in Australia as hedges for shelter and barriers to stock movement. It is now a declared w**d in South Australia and has invaded all landscapes in the N&Y NRM region. Boxthorn is a perennial shrub growing up to 5m hi
gh and 3m wide, with an extensive, deep, branched root system. Leaves are oval, about 3.5cm long and 2cm wide, light green
and fleshy. Flowers are white with purple dots and about 1cm in diameter, with five small petals. These are followed by round orange-red berries 5 to 10 mm diameter, each containing 30 to 70 irregular seeds. It is important not to confuse African boxthorn with native Australian boxthorn (Lycium australe). Australian boxthorn has very small leaves (3-25 mm x 1.5-3 mm in size) that are relatively narrow and thick and fleshy. Its relatively small berries (2-5 mm across) are oval (ellipsoid) or egg- shaped (ovoid) and contain only
5-20 seeds. African boxthorn seeds germinate at any time of the year and seedlings are highly competitive with other plants. They can start to flower at 2 years, bearing fruit in summer, but flowering and fruiting can occur throughout the year. Plants are sometimes deciduous in winter or during drought; if so, new leaves appear in spring or after rain. Seeds are the main method of reproduction and these are spread by birds and mammals that eat the fruit. Seeds may
also be moved by flood waters and in contaminated soil or produce. African boxthorn also has the ability to regrow from root segments. Care must be taken during manual removal to remove all sections of the root system. Why is it a w**d and what is
the impact? Where neglected, the thorny bushes will form dense impenetrable thickets. Boxthorn can become a problem along fences, creeks, floodouts and around dams and leaking troughs where it can prevent stock access to watering points. Boxthorns also provide excellent harbour for pest animals such
as starlings, foxes and rabbits. Boxthorns are not heavily grazed by stock and so it can replace desirable pasture plants. They also invade native vegetation after disturbance. What can you do? – Some methods of control
The best form of w**d control is prevention. W**d infestations should be treated when small to prevent large-scale establishment. Control may include both mechanical and chemical methods. The method chosen should suit your
particular situation. Mechanical
Mechanical removal and stacking of plants, using a tractor and blade, is an immediate way of cleaning up Boxthorn infestations. Plants are easier to remove if the ground is moist. Push the plants into heaps well away from desirable trees, ready for burning. Be mindful of
fire regulations and restrictions. Once plants have been removed, the area will need to be monitored for regrowth from root sections left behind, or germinating seedlings. Continue to remove seedlings or chemically treat new growth until the plants eventually give up. Chemical
There are a variety of chemical herbicides available. Seek advice and further details from your NRM Officers. Chemical treatment should only be carried out when plants are actively growing. Late winter/early spring
is usually the best time to control boxthorn, as long as the plants are NOT moisture-stressed. Herbicides must only be used for the purpose for which they are registered and must not be used in any other situation or in any manner contrary
to the directions on the label. After application of herbicide, African boxthorn often looses its leaves and appears to have died. Quite often the plant survives this period and then produces new foliage. If left unchecked, the plant can regenerate quickly. If this occurs, follow up chemical applications will be required to completely kill the plant. These should be done when
a significant amount of regrowth has occurred, allowing adequate uptake of the herbicide.
