The lark daisy Centratherum punctatum Cass, an emerging invader in South Africa

Centratherum punctatum Cass, a melittophilous shrub endemic to tropical America and Australia, has spread extensively in warm climate countries and has become an invasive species. This paper presents the first official documentation of this species naturalized outside of cultivation in South Africa. Six populations were recorded along roadsides in two provinces, primarily in Limpopo province and Kwa Zulu Natal. One of these populations was identified by a citizen scientist in South Africa. To prevent the spread of this invasive species, efforts are underway to assess the populations for possible early detection and rapid response programs to eradicate them.