Link: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-08-29/bunnings-sweet-pea-polygala-milkwort-shrub-infests-coastline/107075598

The Invasive Species Council [has nominated] Polygala myrtifolia (also known as myrtle-leaf milkwort, as one of Australia's most significant weeds, even as potted examples continue to line shelves in retail stores.

This is just one of 32 invasive weeds of national significance which you can see here: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-03-15/australian-noxious-invasive-weeds-of-national-significance/105035444

It sounds like it's already classified as "invasive". I wonder what the additional "weed" classification adds? I also would have expected invasive to be a stronger classification than weed

Weed is a word that some people don't take overly seriously. Even 'invasive' can be discounted because they feel they can contain the growth. Some people don't even read the tag properly. The best solution, imo, is to not sell them at all, full stop.

Totally.

The article didn't really mention why they're so popular? I'm guessing low maintenance and they look good-enough. I gotta imagine there's a bunch of good alternatives tho. So yeh, just stop selling them lol

We've got some really tough and beautiful native plants we can use instead. I wish people would get that into their heads!