Weed Watch: Wild Tobacco aka Solanum mauritianum

A small tree 3m Wide x 4m High that is highly invasive especially along rivers and creeks.

The best method of removal is to dig the plant out before seeds form, small seedlings can be pulled out if soil is loose enough, all parts of this weed are toxic, it is advised to use gloves and wash hands thoroughly after removing

Botanic Name: Solanum mauritianum

Common Name: Wild Tobacco Tree

Origin: Argentina

Flowers: Autumn – Spring

Photo Credit: Linda Sijpkes

Some Indigenous alternatives to Wild Tobacco are:

Botanic Name: Solanum aviculare

Common Name: Kangaroo Apple

Flowers: September – February

Size: 1-3m Wide x 1-4m High

Position: Part Shade, Well Drained Soils

Photo Credit: Linda Sijpkes

Botanic Name: Olearia argophylla

Common Name: Musk Daisy Bush

Flowers: September – February

Size: 3-10m Wide x 2-6m High

Position: Part to Full Shade, Well Drained Soils

Photo Credit: Yarra Ranges Website – Mary White