An increasingly common weed in Beechmont is the large spreading tree Chinese Elm (Celtis sinensis).
Chinese Elm is a significant environmental weed in Queensland.
It likes clay soil associated with alluvial floodplains, creeks and gullies. One that came to our attention earlier this year has been allowed to grow near the beginning of Beechmont Pioneer Reserve.
During our working bees we are regularly pulling out seedlings that have come from this tree. If we don’t control the seedlings, eventually the creek could be choked by this pest.
We have asked the Council to remove it.
Forming dense infestations they prevent regeneration of native vegetation. They are large spreading trees growing 10-30 metres tall. If you let a Chinese Elm go in your back yard it will take it over.
At this time of year it will probably not have any leaves as it is deciduous. When the leaves grow back they are four to ten centimetres long and three to six centimetres wide.
The upper leaf surface is smooth, glossy and hairless but may become slightly rough to touch as the leaves age. The lower leaf surface is slightly paler and either hairless or slightly hairy.
We don’t want Chinese Elms in Beechmont.
Acquaint yourself with this pest by searching ‘Brisbane City Council Chinese Celtis’ and help us to kick this one out of the area.
