Ability to Respond Total:9 / 25Ability to Respond = ( Ease of Response + Tools in Place )
Confidence:Medium
Confidence Notes:Performed mapping and removal of Asparagus asparagoides (bridal creeper) on Catalina Island in 2016.
Impact
Spread
Notes
Score
Spread Rate
Currently limited distribution, but can be readily dispersed by humans as propagules (commonly occurs around dumps) and by birds who move the sticky seeds.
3
Spread Amount
This species is exclusive to riparian woodlands located along California's central and south coast, and is not common on pasture land. While it can inhabit both disturbed and undisturbed native habitats, its range is currently restricted.
1
Damage
Notes
Score
Ecological
Not widespread, but where it does grow, it forms a dense mat of rhizomes and tubers that prevents other species from growing. Similarly, the above-ground shoots form a dense cover that prevents other species from growing and dries up in the summer, creating a fire hazard.
2
Agricultural
0
Infrastructure
0
Cultural
No specific mention of damage to cultural sites found in literature reviewed. However, as Aa grows prolifically in coastal and riparian areas (Hay, ’07; Kleinjan, et al., ‘99) where cultural sites can be present, the reviewer has no hesitation in assuming that it has the potential to obscure, if not smother, sites of significance. It has also been mentioned that Aa can grow over and smother trees and small buildings, therefore cemetery plots, and other sites of significance MAY be at risk.
0
Health
0
Benefit
Notes
Score
Ecological
Fruit is a food source for birds
1
Agricultural
0
Infrastructure
0
Cultural
0
Health
0
Total
5
Ability to Respond
Ease of Response
Notes
Score
Detection
Aboveground shoots are easily identifiable since they form mats. May be hard to detect if only the subterranean structures are present. Tends to grow near urban areas, so access shouldn’t be too difficult. Spread in known pathways.
4
Control
Control can be difficult. Glyphosate and metsulfuron give good chemical control. Grubbing, digging and hand pulling can be effective, but all rhizomes must be removed. Resprouts readily when cut, grazed, or burned.
3
Tools in Place
Notes
Score
Entry
Not on CCR 4500 Noxious Weed list.
0
Control
A weed targeted for removal by the Catalina Island Conservancy
