Cecropia

Cecropia is a native tree of the Central America region.

• The plants can be distinguished by the large U-shaped leaf scars on the stems and the alternate, deeply-lobed leaves (similar to Paw Paw).
• The lower surface of the leaf is covered with hairs; with flowers in clustered spikes to 6cm long.
• Cecropia trees have a hollow trunk and branches, which are divided into a series of chambers by partitions.
• There are separate male and female plants, and both are required for reproduction.

An aerial inspection was conducted to locate Cecropia trees in the Tweed and Byron areas during the last week in May 2011. Seven new infestations were located, mapped and photographed. Council inspectors will now look for these trees as part of their normal duties. Full-grown Cecropias can produce more than one million seeds, which can be viable for more than five years and will germinate when triggered by full sunlight and changing temperatures. Cecropias are ‘pioneer’ species that quickly invade and colonise forest clearings, riverbanks, roadsides, abandoned farmland, or other disturbed areas.

If you think you have Cecropia, or know of any, please call Rous County Council on 6623 3800.

Distribution map as at May 2017

Predictive mapping supplied by Queensland Biosecurity