Chilean myrtle

Chilean myrtle is a two-tonal, evergreen tree that grows between 10-15m tall. It is a substantial biodiversity threat as it's a prolific seed producer and outcompetes native species.

Description

• The smooth bark has a distinctive two-tonal appearance of cinnamon orange-brown or creamy grey, peeling off as it matures.
• Leaves are dark green and shiny with smooth edges when juvenile, becoming smaller and dull on maturity, similar to mountain beech leaves but with a pointed tip.
• Flowers are white and visible in summer; black or blue berries follow in autumn, 1cm wide.
• Seeds are dispersed by birds and gravity. Human-induced spread by intentional plantings and the plant trade.
• Habitats include forests, forest edges, gardens, shrublands, along waterways, and urban areas.

What you need to know

Prolifically produces seeds that readily germinate in full or partial shade where dense stands outcompete native species.

Management approach

Community Led

These organisms have not been legally declared as pests but may be of interest to the public as they occur regularly in the environment. They may be capable of causing adverse effects to the values of Waitaha/Canterbury.

Consider removing this invasive species from your property and consult your local council for appropriate disposal. Consider lower-risk alternatives for your garden, such as native plants.

Control

Site management

Always treat standing plants, do not cut down as this may stimulate new growth. Allow to fully die before felling. Follow up treated areas three times per year. Encourage natural regeneration of native plants or replant treated areas where possible after two to three treatments to establish dense ground cover and minimise reinvasion.

Physical control

Dig or pull out seedlings.

Plant parts requiring disposal: all parts.

Contact your local council for appropriate disposal locations.

Chemical control

Certified handler/experienced agrichemical user: Drill and inject trees with 10g metsulfuron-methyl per 1L of water if safe to do so. Drill 18mm holes (angled downwards) in a spiral up the trunk.

For 50mm stems drill one hole. For 100mm stems drill two holes. For larger stems drill holes 150mm apart. Foliar spray seedlings with 5g metsulfuron-methyl per 10L of water and 20ml penetrant.

Caution: When using any herbicide or pesticide please read the label thoroughly to ensure that all instructions and safety requirements are followed.

Biological control

Biological control is currently not available for this species.

Safety notes

Large trees must not be drilled that are closer than 1.5 times the height of the tree from paths, walkways and property.

Trees over 4m in height should be removed by a qualified arborist.