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Bridal creeper, Asparagus asparagoides, is a major
perennial weed in southern Australian parklands and roadsides.
As a climber, its growing habit smothers other vegetation.
In dense infestations the underground tubers, representing
up to 90% of the weed's biomass, form 'mats' under the soil
surface that prevent native seedling establishment.
Bridal creeper foliage appears after the first winter rains
and fruits in late November. Birds eat the fruit and are responsible
for seed spread. The foliage dies off in early summer due
to lack of water, but the tuber reserves enable it to survive
the summer drought.
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