Pitted crassula

Pitted crassula is a small, creeping herb that is very hardy.

Description

• Stems are creeping, that root at the nodes.

• Leaves are fleshy and covered with small, pitted dots.

• Flowers are pink/red clusters, blooming in spring/summer.

• Habitats include coastal environments, sand dunes, rock, cliffs, banks, rock walls, volcanic cones, and riparian and forest margins.

What you need to know

Pitted crassula forms dense mats that prevent native regeneration.

Management approach

Pitted crassula is declared an unwanted organism by the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) because it is capable of causing harm to the natural environment, physical resources or human health in Aotearoa/New Zealand.

These species pose a high risk to our environment, economy, recreation, and cultural values.

Rules

Any species declared a pest cannot be sold or be in a place where plants are being sold. Pest plants cannot be propagated, bred, multiplied, communicated, released, caused to be released, or otherwise spread.

To help protect our environment:

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

Follow up treated areas 3 times per year. Encourage natural regeneration of native plants or replant treated areas where possible after 2-3 treatments to establish dense ground cover and minimise reinvasion.

Physical control

Dig or pull-out small plants

Plant parts requiring disposal: all parts

Contact your local council for appropriate disposal options

Chemical control

Foliar spray with 20ml glyphosate plus 2ml penetrant per 1L of water.

Foliar spray with 20ml of glyphosate plus 0.5g methsulfuron-methyl and 3ml penetrant per 1L of water.

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