The Biology of Australian Weeds 43. Polymeria longifolia Lindl

Abstract

This paper focuses on Polymeria longifolia, a native Australian drought-tolerant species commonly known as either clumped or erect bindweed, and known as one of the take-all weeds, because of its perennial rhizomatous habit, its ability to form dense competitive infestations that smother the ground and its ability to extract soil water and nutrients. Descriptions of the weed, as well as its history, distribution, habitat (climatic requirements, plant associations and substratum), growth and development, morphology, phenology (seedling emergence and flowering), reproduction (floral biology, seed production and dispersal and seed germination), population dynamics, importance, and management strategies (use of herbicides, field hygiene, natural enemies, hoeing and prevention), are provided.