Pest plant species: Woolly Nightshade
Woolly nightshade is listed in our Regional Pest Management Plan as an eradication species. Pest plants in the eradication category are present in the Horizons Region, but are feasibly able to be eradicated through robust control programmes.
Woolly nightshade (Solanum mauritianum) is a highly invasive plant species that poses a significant threat to our native ecosystems and biodiversity. It’s also known as known as tobacco weed or kerosene plant because of its pungent smell. In some places it is called bugweed.
Originating from South America, it has rapidly spread across New Zealand, outcompeting native vegetation and altering habitats. It’s toxic to stock, suppresses native plants and causes allergies to humans.
Woolly nightshade is one of the pest plants Horizons is actively working with landowners to control. If you see woolly nightshade call our pest plant team on 0508 800 800 to discuss control options.
If you have a small number of plants on your property you can also control it yourself.