Experts Warn: Popular Product in Australian Nurseries May Be Dangerous

Published: Saturday, June 7, 2025 at 5:51 am

Popular Nursery Plant Faces Potential Ban Due to Environmental Concerns

A popular flowering plant sold in Australian nurseries, including Bunnings Warehouse, is under scrutiny following new research highlighting its potential to cause significant environmental damage. The study, conducted by La Trobe University and published in *Frontiers in Agronomy*, has revealed that Gazania daisies, originally from South Africa, are highly invasive and pose a greater threat to native landscapes and agricultural areas than previously understood.

The research indicates that Gazanias can thrive in diverse Australian environments, spreading rapidly and destructively. The plants are already classified as environmental weeds, with the Invasive Species Council advocating for a national ban. Imogen Ebsworth, advocacy manager for the council, emphasized that Gazanias are overrunning native grasslands, coastlines, and even grain production areas, impacting crop yields and costing farmers.

The plant is already banned in South Australia. The study highlights that escaped ornamental plants are a primary source of new weeds in Australia, accounting for over 70% of the country's environmental weeds. The cost of these weeds is estimated to be over $5 billion annually due to agricultural and environmental damage.

Bunnings Warehouse, a major retailer of Gazanias, stated that it closely follows advice from authorities and adheres to local biosecurity regulations. The company confirmed that the plants sold in its stores vary depending on regional regulations and declaration status. Bunnings advises shoppers to review plant labels and information before purchasing. The retailer also confirmed it will continue to monitor changes in government regulations regarding invasive weeds and adjust its plant offerings accordingly.

BNN's Perspective:

While the environmental concerns raised by this research are valid, a complete ban on a popular plant like Gazania daisies could be a complex issue. It's crucial to balance environmental protection with the needs of consumers and the nursery industry. A phased approach, with clear guidelines and support for affected businesses, might be a more effective solution than an immediate ban. Increased public awareness and education about invasive species are also essential to empower consumers to make informed choices.

Keywords: Gazania daisies, invasive species, environmental weeds, Bunnings Warehouse, La Trobe University, Australia, nurseries, plant ban, environmental damage, agricultural damage, South Africa, coastal gazania, weed control, regulatory failure, ornamental plants, biosecurity regulations, plant labels, native landscapes, Imogen Ebsworth, Invasive Species Council, Frontiers in Agronomy

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