Story: Weeds of the bush

Tradescantia

Tradescantia

Botanist Rachel Standish is surrounded by Tradescantia fluminensis, also known as wandering willie. In a 2002 study, researchers found that the number and diversity of native woody seedlings declined as the amount of tradescantia increased. The weed blocked sunlight, and at 100% weed cover, light was reduced to 1–2% of its full strength. Originally from South America, tradescantia in New Zealand spreads from stem fragments that form new roots from nodes.

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How to cite this page:

Bob Brockie, 'Weeds of the bush - Herbs', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/photograph/13631/tradescantia (accessed 29 March 2024)

Story by Bob Brockie, published 24 Sep 2007, updated 18 Apr 2016