What is it?
Sphagneticola trilobata or Singapore Daisy is a fast-growing groundcover that was originally brought to Australia as a garden plant. It looks cheerful, with bright yellow flowers, but it spreads very quickly and has become one of the most invasive weeds across the Wet Tropics.
Once it escapes gardens, it does not stop on its own…
Why is it a problem?
Singapore daisy forms thick, dense mats that smother everything underneath them. Native plants cannot grow through it, seedlings cannot regenerate, and over time whole areas lose their natural diversity.
How to spot it on your property
- Dense mats of low, trailing groundcover
- Glossy dark green leaves, often with three lobes
- Bright yellow daisy-like flowers that appear most of the year
- Rapid spread along fences, garden edges, creeks, and bare soil
If you notice it creeping out of garden beds or forming carpets rather than growing in clumps, that is a red flag.
What to do about it
Singapore daisy is regulated under Queensland biosecurity laws, which means we all have a responsibility to stop it spreading.
Prevention
- Do not plant Singapore daisy in gardens
- Be very careful when mowing or slashing; small fragments spread this weed
- Clean down mowers, whipper snippers, and tools after working in infested areas
Physical removal
- Small patches can be hand-pulled
- Make sure all roots and fragments are removed; even small pieces can regrow
- Bag plant material securely and dispose of it properly; do not dump it in bushland
Chemical control
- There are herbicides registered for Singapore daisy, but correct use matters
- For larger infestations, refer to Biosecurity Queensland or CCRC information
Need help?
Not sure if what you are seeing is Singapore daisy; or wondering how best to deal with it on your property? Contact us: hello@cassowaryconservation.org
We are happy to help with identification, advice, or to point you towards the right local resources.