scoparius forms a dense shrub layer, in contrast to the native shrub distribution that tends to be more scattered. scoparius have been most thoroughly studied on the Barrington Tops Plateau, which has the largest infestation of the species in Australia. Infestations can also impede access along watercourses and affect both native and exotic bird diversity, reptile density, and native mammal density. Thickets increase the fuel loads in native vegetation, thus altering natural fire regimes and fire behaviour. scoparius is highly flammable and can burn intensely under suitable fuel and weather conditions. scoparius provide habitat for rabbits, foxes and feral pigs that can increase soil disturbance. scoparius can change the vegetation structure (for example by converting grasslands to shrublands), modify the microclimate, and alter the floristic composition. scoparius can modify natural ecosystems in a number of ways. Fire can also stimulate seed germination resulting in dense infestations of seedlings.įollowing invasion, C. Grazing has been shown to increase the probability of recruitment from the soil seed bank by a factor of four. scoparius cover by slashing, burning or herbicidal treatment of mature stands, at least in the absence of heavy mulching of the exposed soil surface. While seedling establishment can be suppressed in shade, massive seedling recruitment can occur after manual removal of C. scoparius competes strongly with native vegetation, reducing recruitment of seedlings and growth of understorey species in open forest areas. scoparius can also invade areas subject to minimal disturbance, including eucalypt forest and woodland, alpine grassland and pasture. Seedlings establish readily on sites where the soil has been disturbed or after fire. scoparius readily invades sub-alpine grasslands and grassy woodlands as well as associated riparian habitats. Germination can occur at any time of the year if conditions are suitable.Ĭ.

Flowering occurs in spring and seed set, which is the only method of reproduction, mainly occurs from late December to early February. scoparius can grow to over 6 m but more commonly to 1-2 m. In some locations it has formed near monocultures. It is continuing to spread through both expansion of existing infestations and colonization into new areas. It grows most successfully in cool temperate areas on moist, fertile soils. scoparius is estimated to infest more than 200 000 ha in south-eastern Australia and has become an environmental weed in higher rainfall areas. Subsequent introductions were made for ornamental purposes and by 1901 it had spread significantly and was declared a noxious weed in NSW. Scotch Broom, Cytisus scoparius, is a leguminous shrub native to Europe, first introduced to Australia in the early 1800s. For teachers, schools and community educators.

Scotch broom plant images