Paterson's curse
Paterson’s curse (Echium plantagineum) is a major weed throughout southern Australian pastures. It infests an estimated 33 million hectares at an annual cost to agriculture of about $30 million.
Although it is most common in high rainfall temperate areas, its tolerance of different climates and soils allows it to grow over a wide area. Paterson’s curse reduces pasture productivity and carrying capacity by out-competing more beneficial pasture species.
Managing patersons curse to boost pasture production (PDF, 226KB)
Biological control
Biological control is a tool for the long-term suppression of Paterson’s curse, particularly on difficult-to-manage areas. Paterson’s curse can be managed biologically with the following insect species:
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