Willoughby City Council is urging residents to help stop the spread of Spanish moss (Tillandsia usneoides), a rapidly growing weed that is threatening native trees and bushland across the region.
Known as Old Man’s Beard, Spanish moss is spreading rapidly due to warmer, wetter climate conditions and is difficult to remove due to its height.
Spanish Moss threatens the survival of key native trees, damages host trees by shading branches and preventing photosynthesis, weighs down limbs, causing breakage and stress, alters habitats and affects native species and predator-prey interactions.
Council is removing the moss from public areas, monitoring bushland, and training bushcare volunteers on early detection and is also educating the public.
Council is asking residents to check their trees and gardens for signs of Spanish moss and remove it where safe to do so. The plant should not be used for garden decoration or landscaping, as this contributes to its spread.
While Spanish moss is not currently listed as a prohibited or restricted plant under NSW biosecurity laws, it is officially recognised as a weed by the Department of Primary Industries. Council is advocating for a review of its classification.
A community education campaign will roll out in the coming months via social media, newsletters, and council’s website to help residents identify and manage the plant responsibly.
Visit council’s website for more information.
