PINK gladioli are synonymous with Dame Edna Everage but they are also an introduced and invasive weed, which is threatening to take over the Maida Vale Reserve and community efforts to eradicate it are on again.
The Shire of Kalamunda is seeking the community’s help to control pink gladioli in Maida Vale Reserve, which is a unique and biodiverse natural habitat for more than 200 plants and animals.
“By pulling up the pink gladioli at this time of year we will stop the bulbs setting seed and continue to reduce its impact on this significant bushland reserve,” Shire chief executive Rhonda Hardy said.
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READ NOW“This event has been held for several years, and each year we have seen a further reduction in the number of gladioli taking over. Not only is it good for the environment – it is a lot of fun.”
People should bring hats, boots, gloves and your water bottle and join in a short session of hand-pulling gladioli and can stay for light refreshments afterwards.
Pink gladioli (Gladiolus caryophyllaceus) is a bulbous garden plant originally from South Africa that has taken hold in bushland across the Perth region, including in Maida Vale.
Rare and threatened plants and animals occupy Maida Vale Reserve, making control of pink gladioli an important action to protect this critical habitat.
For catering purposes register by phoning the Shire of Kalamunda on 9257 9999 or emailing environment-@kalamunda.wa.gov.au