Kawau’s March Weed of the month: WOOLLY NIGHTSHADE

It has a strong kerosene-like smell
Vigorous growing habit- seedlings established in summer can produce seeds by autumn!
Seeds can remain dormant in the soil and germinate up to 20-30 years later.
The dust from the leaves and stems can irritate the skin, eyes, nose, and throat - Wear gloves and a mask if undertaking woolly nightshade control for long periods.

Year round it has mauve to purple flowers followed by clusters of round berries that ripen from green to dull yellow.
Birds spread the seeds, especially the Kereru (wood pigeon).
May also spread in the wind and by water ( streams etc).
Seeds sprout where they fall below the plant.

Wear gloves - Pull out small plants especially after rain (easier).
Poison by spray (I have used Glyphosate with a spray fixative very successfully on large plants.
Large plants - Cut top off and paste/drill with chemicals recommended in the links below.

Tiaki ō Kawau - weed of the month