The plant originally comes from South America, where its growth is limited by insects. The plant travelled to Australia, probably by ship in contaminated wheat, where it was fought with pesticides. The problem then took over to India and Africa. In Ethiopia a lot of cattle (goats) and land was lost. In Kenia the National Parks are threatened. The government is taking measures and cooperating with Ethiopia.
• It is a vigorous species, which colonizes in grassy land.
• It grows rapidly in bare areas along roadside and water points.
• It reduces the production of pasture.
• It is poisonous for humans and animals.
• It can cause strong allergic skin reactions.
• It destroys price of grassy land.
• Carbon dioxide emission impairs nitrogen fixation
• It becomes a parasite, dependent on standing crops and animals in its vicinity.
Source: Wikipedia
