Agricultural
19 September, 2025
Castlereagh Macquarie County Council warns landholders about Sticky Florestina
Land managers across northwest NSW are being urged to take immediate action against the spread of Sticky Florestina (Florestina Tripteris).
Sticky Florestina is a toxic and invasive weed that is rapidly encroaching on pastures and natural ecosystems.
Originally introduced to Australia in the 1960s via contaminated pasture seed, Sticky Florestina has had five incursions in the Narrabri region, and one incursion in the Gilgandra shire, likely transported by livestock from Queensland. With its sticky seeds and resilience in dry conditions, the plant is spreading along major transport routes and grazing lands.
Sticky Florestina is unpalatable and toxic to grazing animals. Its short life cycle and seed longevity of up to two years make it difficult to manage once established. The weed can choke out natural vegetation.
Chairman of Castlereagh Macquarie County Council, Doug Batten, is urging landholders to be proactive: “Sticky Florestina is a serious concern. I strongly encourage all land managers to be vigilant and report any sightings of this plant to their Local Biosecurity Officer. Early detection is key to preventing widespread infestation.”
While Sticky Florestina is not yet classified as a prohibited or priority weed, landholders have a General Biosecurity Duty to prevent, eliminate, or minimise biosecurity risks posed by any plant and this includes identifying, containing, and reporting new infestations.
The following best describes the Sticky Florestina plant.
· Grows up to one metre tall
· Small white flowers, often mistaken for Parthenium
· Sticky white hairs covering the plant
· Trifoliate upper leaves and opposite lower leaves
Land managers are asked to inspect their properties regularly, especially after receiving stock from Queensland, clean motor vehicles and machinery and report sightings to your Local Control Authority or Council.
For assistance with identification, please contact the Castlereagh Macquarie County Council
