Brazilian Tobacco Bush

WCMN recently received a report from Malcolm Cousland of Boort who has noted a progressive infestation of the weed Brazilian Tobacco bush (Solanum mauritianum) from the ‘Granites’ into nearby private land over the last few years. This information was in turn then passed on to Parks Victoria. Unfortunately Parks Victoria is only provided with funds to control either Schedule 1 or 2 weeds which are the Government’s highest priority and Brazilian Tobacco Bush is not included on these schedules and therefore is not a priority for Parks Victoria’s weed control program. At the last monthly meeting of the WCMN the situation was discussed and a further report of the weed at Mt Korong was noted. It was decided after discussion to consider the possibility of using WCMN funds in the control of this weed.
Solanum mauritianum can form dense stands that inhibit the growth of other species through overcrowding and shading. This is apparently a weed to be avoided as all parts of the plant are toxic to humans, especially the green berries. The fine hairs on the leaves can be an irritant.
Michael Moore