Northglen News – Elephant Ear Plant Eradication - Conservancy needs your help!

Durban North Conservancy member, Jane Troughton has called for the community’s help in removing large clumps of elephant ear plants which have taken over sections of Bridgevale Park.

THE Durban North Conservancy has asked the community for help in dealing with tropical elephant ear plants which have taken over large sections of Bridgevale Park (off Beckenham Place).

Enviro Fixers Durban North and the City’s Parks Department have worked to change the landscape of the community park, which in the past had been the site of illegal dumping.

The space was also infested with alien invasive species meaning residents could not use the valley. Now thanks to the ongoing project, a one kilometre circular track has been cleared and work on the removal of some alien species has taken place in the last two years by Enviro Fixers and the Durban North Conservancy, explained Jane Troughton.

“We've seen a massive growth in the Elephant ear plants. We've noticed two diff erent types in the park but they've become rampant in some sections of Bridgevale. Their massive leaves and speedy growth rate have made this plant invasive within the space we are working in. We are appealing to the community to help us remove them, because they've spread from the far side of the park to various sections.

“Their excessive size may pose problems for species that live under the giant foliage and they are very easy to remove. We've been experimenting with removing a clump of them in the middle of the park and it has proven successful. If residents have the time to help, all they need is a spade to dig up the plant at its root to stop them from spreading. I know some people have suggested herbicides, but we don't want to hurt the environment,” she said.