African Boxthorn is one of the more aggressive woody weeds found in coastal environments.

 

This dense, thorny shrub can grow several metres high, forming impenetrable thickets that exclude native vegetation and alter important wildlife habitat.

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While the berries are readily spread by birds, the large spines make established plants difficult and unpleasant to remove.

 

At Waikawa Beach, Boxthorn poses a particular threat to dune restoration areas and nesting bird habitat, making early control and ongoing management an important part of protecting our coastal environment.

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