WEED WATCH: Coral Berry (Rivina humilis)

Coral Berry, also known as Baby Pepper, Bloodberry, Inkberry, and Pigeon Berry, is an invasive shrub originating from Central and South America. This small plant grows up to 1 metre in height, has dark green leaves and tiny white flowers that develop into green and then shiny red berries.

Coral Berry invades rainforests and closed forests by germinating in low light, reducing native plant diversity, and decreasing forest floor light levels by up to 70%. Birds eat the berries, spreading the seeds through droppings, and seeds can also spread via tyres and shoes. Its dense growth and shallow roots deplete surface moisture, impacting native plants.

Found island-wide in shaded areas of native vegetation, Coral Berry can be controlled by hand weeding, which is most effective before the plants fruit. Piled plants will break down in a few months. Folia sprays are generally less effective.

Help protect our native flora by removing Coral Berry whenever you come across it.