Nassella tenuissima (trin.) Barkworth
Mexican feather grass is declared under the Catchment and Land Protection Act (1994) as a State prohibited weed. Plants of this species were allegedly sold by a number of retail chain stores throughout Victoria. Investigations by the Department of Primary Industries have revealed that approximately 4000 Mexican feather grass plants may have been supplied to stores from January to May 2008.
| Suspected Mexican feather grass plants could have been sold under any way of the following names: Stipa capillata, Stipa lessingiana, Stipa capricco or Stipa Regal Sensation |
What are State prohibited weeds?
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State prohibited weeds either do not occur in Victoria, or are present and can reasonably be expected to be eradicated. State prohibited weeds are the highest category of noxious weeds under the Catchment and Land Protection Act (1994). The Department of Primary Industries is responsible for the eradication of State prohibited weeds. The Victorian Government is committed to preventing the introduction of high-risk weeds into Victoria, to protect our environment and economy.
Why is it so dangerous?
Mexican feather grass is a potentially serious new weed to Australia. It is hardy, drought tolerant, unpalatable to stock and difficult to control. The species is closely related to serrated tussock, widely regarded as Australia’s worst pasture weed. Ecological modelling indicates that Mexican feather grass could spread to more than 500 million hectares of land in Australia; over 60% of the country. If allowed to establish, the economic and environmental costs of an infestation this size are estimated at $10 million annually
How to identify Mexican feather grass
Mexican feather grass is a dense, upright tussock that grows to about 70cm high. It is very similar in appearance to serrated tussock.
Leaves are thin and fine rolling smoothly between the thumb and forefinger. Serrations make the leaves feel coarse when sliding fingers down the length of the leaf blade.
Mature plants form seed in a contracted flower head. Seeds have a small pointed tip and a long bent tail which resemble a large feather when clumped together.
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What should you do if you find a Mexican feather grass plant?
If you think you have purchased or seen a Mexican feather grass plant, please contact the Department of Primary Industries by telephoning 136 186.
| Please do not attempt to control or dispose of this weed yourself. |
