Noogoora Burr

NOOGOORA BURR

With the fresh runs in all the river systems, there is a mightly fine crop of Noogoora Burr growing in Western Queensland. Noogoora burr is considered a weed, and is poisonous to livestock if eaten when a small plant. It can grow up to 2 metres tall, and recent weather has ensured that it will blossom to its full capacity.

Noogoora grows clusters of burrs which contain seeds. The burrs dry off to a brown colour, and have incredible sticking power. They cling remarkably to socks, clothing, wool, cattle, hair, machinery...........and also float rather well down the water ways. Hence, its spread alongside water ways.

It is a species that has adapted rather well to our boom and bust climate. Each burr contains two seeds. One seeds germinates in the first year of growth, and the second one remains dormant until the next good season. How amazing is that?

There are great clumps of Noogoora currently to be seen in Western Queensland......and most landholders aren't overly proud of their magnificent stands of Noogoora. It really is a weed and a pest.