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.
Commonly known as Old Man's Beard, Spanish moss has become an increasing concern in Northern Sydney, particularly within Willoughby, where residents and bushcare volunteers have reported a noticeable rise in infestations. The issue was recently raised at the June Ordinary Council meeting, and a resolution has been passed to take proactive steps to manage and contain the weed.
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. Willoughby Council is advocating for a review of its classification and is committed to early intervention to prevent the weed from becoming more widespread and costly to manage.
Why Spanish moss is a problem:
- Threatens the survival of key native trees and streetscapes.
- 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.
- Spreading rapidly due to warmer, wetter climate conditions.
- and costly to remove due to high canopy growth.
Spanish moss particularly affects native canopy trees such as turpentines, brush box, lilly pilly, and cheese tree, as well as ornamental species like maples and bottlebrush. Spread by wind, birds, and humans, it can quickly colonise new areas, including backyards and balconies.
What Council is doing:
- Removal of infestations in public areas.
- Monitoring and management through bushland and reserve action plans.
- Training for bushcare volunteers and staff on early detection and response.
- Public education campaign to raise awareness and reduce spread.
- Updated weed fact sheets and communication materials.
- Advocating for state-level regulation of Spanish moss.
How You Can Help:
Willoughby 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.
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.
"Spanish moss is becoming an environmental threat in our urban forest. Early action and strong community cooperation are essential to protect the health of our tree canopy and local biodiversity," said Mayor Tanya Taylor.
