Weeds in our Area (Part Seventy Seven)
By Bob and Ena McIntyre – Garden Route Branch
Myoporum tenuifolium sudso. Montanum
Manatoka (Myoporum tenuifolium subsp. Montanum): This Category Three invader species is
almost a “signature” of long established coastal gardens, not surprising as M.laetum was
promoted as a windbreak and hedging plant. Interestingly only two of our references talk about
the Manatoka, both in the context of hedges – clearly it was not a broadly popular choice as an
ornamental. Originating from Australia, Manatoka is an easy to grow shrub or small tree tolerant
of salt-laden wind but sensitive to drought conditions. The species has become a problem in South
Africa and invades coastal fynbos, riverbanks, valleys and coastal dunes and has a tendency to
transform the indigenous environment.
All parts of the plant are toxic. As with all plants that are listed as Category Three, those subjects
that were in existence before 30 March 2001 may be kept but no new plantings or any form of
trade may take place. Any emergent
seedlings
should
therefore
be
destroyed.
Identification:
Manatoka
is
an
evergreen somewhat succulent shrub
or small tree from 2 – 6 m high. The
leaves are dull green thickly fleshly but
firm with a linear-lanceolate, tapering
shape with entire (smooth) margins up
to 100mm long. The small flowers are
white, frequently purple-spotted, bell
shaped between 5-8 mm long in small
clusters, between July and October. The
fruits are purple in colour.
Control: As no herbicide is specifically
registered for this species, the best
control option is the physical removal
and destruction of the plant material. Weed out seedlings as soon as they appear.
Substitutes: Podalaria calyptrata (Pienk Keurtjie), Bauhinia galpinii (Pride of de Kaap), Grewia
occidentalis (Cross berry), Psoralea pinnata (Fonteinbos).
References: “ALIEN WEEDS AND INVASIVE PLANTS”: Lesley Henderson. Copyright © 2001
Agricultural Research Council, A to Z of Gardening in SA (W G Sheat).