Watch for Green Cestrum

Green cestrum poisoning a risk this spring

Landholders in the Northern Tablelands and North West NSW should be aware of an increased risk of Green cestrum (Cestrum parqui) poisoning, with the plant becoming more prevalent after recent rainfall.

Green cestrum is a shrub that is poisonous to humans and animals including cattle, sheep, horses, pigs, poultry and native wildlife. Green cestrum contains a poison called ‘carboxyparquin’ that causes liver and brain damage.  All parts of the plant, especially the berries, are toxic and bushes are still poisonous after they have been cut down or sprayed. Poisoning can occur if the plant touches bare skin, and the plant can be fatal if eaten.

Green cestrum can cause sudden death in livestock, with livestock usually found close to infestations of the plant. Signs of poisoning include severe stomach pain disorientation or walking with a stagger, irritability, blood-streaked manure or diarrhoea, weakness, not eating, lying on the ground, a coma or convulsions followed by death.

Hugh Leckie, North West Local Land Services Regional Weeds Coordinator said that it is important that landholders keep livestock away from paddocks when controlling the weed until the leaf material has disintegrated or been removed.

“While Green cestrum is not very palatable, animals may eat it when other feed is scarce, especially when the plant has been recently sprayed and is wilting”, said Mr Leckie.

“A good place to check for Green cestrum is under Pepper trees especially near waterways, but it can also be found under other trees and shrubs where birds commonly roost”, he said.

Green cestrum should be treated as mature plants in early spring before they flower. It is important to then control regrowth from treated plants. Landholders should look for and kill new seedlings in autumn, and use mulches and revegetate to suppress seedlings. Green cestrum seeds may lie dormant for many years, so it is essential to remain on top of the weed when it is spotted.

 For assistance with identifying Green cestrum, landholders should contact their Local Council Weed Biosecurity Officer for advice on management and control of the plant.