Mexican bean tree

• Fast-growing tree 10–20m tall, sometimes up to 25m tall.
• Leaves are alternate, 10–50cm wide, resemble paw-paw leaves.
• Lower leaf surface is densely covered with white hairs.
• Leafstalks are usually 23–30cm long.
• Hollow stems, flowers and fruits are key features.
• Yellow flowers are arranged in clusters of spikes, 12–18cm.
• Fruit is cylindrical, ovoid to oblong-ovoid, somewhat flattened, 3.3–3.7mm long, with soft, sweet flesh around many small seeds.

• Naturalised specimens are most likely to be found in wetter habitats such as riparian zones and dry rainforest remnants.

• Found in gardens in Mackay, Cairns, Brisbane and the Gold Coast.

• Matures in 3–5 years.
• Recorded to flower as early as 3.3 years of age.
• Flowers are wind-pollinated and produce about 18% viable seeds.

Environmental

• Potential to invade and dominate moderately moist forest ecosystems in north Queensland, possibly causing serious and irreversible damage.

• Seeds spread by fruit bats and birds.

• Find out how farmers can prevent weed spread.
• Find out how gardeners and outdoor enthusiasts can prevent weed spread.

• Phone 13 25 23 if you find a plant you suspect may be Mexican bean tree to seek advice on control options.

Mexican bean tree is a category 2, 3, 4 and 5 restricted invasive plant under the Biosecurity Act 2014. All other Mexican bean trees (approx. 58 species) (that is Cecropia spp. other than C. pachystachya, C. palmata and C. peltata) are prohibited invasive plants.

• You must not keep, move, given away, sell or release into the environment. Penalties may apply.
• All sightings of Mexican bean trees must be reported to Biosecurity Queensland within 24 hours of the sighting.
• You must take all reasonable and practical measures to minimise the biosecurity risks associated with dealing with Mexican bean tree under your control. This is called a general biosecurity obligation (GBO).
• At a local level, each local government must have a biosecurity plan that covers invasive plants in its area. This plan may include actions to be taken on Mexican bean tree. Some of these actions may be required under local laws. Contact your local council for more information.