Sharon Woods took this photo on their property west of Parkes where the marshmallow weed is growing at a phenomenal rate.
The warmer winter weather and good rains have resulted in weeds growing at a phenomenal rate, especially marshmallow weed. There has been reports of the mallow weed growing up to 2.4m high on some properties in the region.
According to Parkes Shire Council’s Environmental & Sustainability Coordinator Michael Chambers the mallow plant is fairly common and widespread, and “does come up every year when conditions are favourable”.
While some people feel it has become a real pest, Michael said it was only regarded as a nuisance weed, and not a state or regionally significant weed that needs to be controlled under the Biosecurity Act.
“Controlling this plant is not always easy,” said Michael. “For the home gardener, one of the best ways to control it in lawns is to make sure turf is thick and healthy as it will choke out the weed and not allow the seeds to spread.
“If you choose to use a herbicide, be sure to read the directions thoroughly, and use it when the plants are young and in their non-flowering/seeding state. Never eat a mallow plant that has been sprayed with a herbicide.”
Apparently, alpacas love to eat the mallow weed. The young leaves are edible for humans too and tastes lovely in salads or as cooked greens. If you feel adventurous, make sure to only forage for leaves in your own yard.