Watsonia
About Watsonia (Watsonia meriana var. bulbillifera)
Watsonia is a sun-loving herbaceous perennial to 2 m which has orange flowers on a tall spike above long wide leaves. It was introduced as an ornamental and was popular because of its hardiness and bright flowers. It is native to South Africa and has become a serious weed. It thrives in wet areas like creek banks, remnant bushland and roadsides.
How it spreads
Watsonia spreads by cormels (bulbils) that develop along the flowering stem. Cormels are spread by water, soil transport and dumping of garden waste.
How to keep it in your garden
Watsonia is a declared weed across Victoria. Ii is almost impossible to control and confine to your garden. Consider removing it by hand pulling to remove the corm in winter and spring when the ground is soft and wet. Cut the stems before the bulbils along the stems are dispersed. Burn them or place in a plastic bag and into the trash. Consider alternatives for this plant rather than planting it or letting it grow in your garden.