Bitou bush management manual: Current management and control options for bitou bush (Chrysanthemoides monilifera ssp. rotundata) in Australia

One hundred years ago the first bitou bush plant was recorded as naturalised in Australia, growing in coastal vegetation at Stockton north of Newcastle, New South Wales. Since this time it has had a chequered history. It was promoted by the NSW Soil Conservation Board who recognised its rapid growth and ability to stabilise soils following mining in coastal sand dunes. Deliberate planting occurred along the New South Wales coastline for several decades until its weedy status was acknowledged and it was declared a noxious weed. Due to its rapid spread and ability to form monocultures, it was later listed as a key threat to biodiversity and a Weed of National Significance (WoNS).