Highly invasive, toxic plant spreads through Saanich neighbourhood
- The highly invasive and toxic Italian arum plant has spread through Saanich, including Smollett's neighbourhood and district-owned lands, as of 2025.
- Saanich became aware of Italian arum about five years ago following provincial notices because of its rapid spread and impact on local ecosystems.
- The district manages 16 infected sites and about 30 invasive plants, with Italian arum treatments facing challenges such as poor herbicide success and significant public management efforts.
- Smollett described the plant as "very aggressive and very hard to get rid of," while botanist Ken Marr emphasized acting swiftly to kill it at the roots due to its rapid reproduction and displacement of native plants.
- The continued spread of Italian arum, which tolerates cold and causes severe skin irritation or death, implies urgent and careful community action to prevent further ecological and public health risks.
14 Articles
14 Articles
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