New grass weed threat

June 6, 2008: Bega Valley Shire Council weeds staff are concerned that a weed closely related to serrated tussock and Chilean needle grass, both listed noxious weeds and Weeds of National Significance, has been found growing in the ACT.

Weeds manager Ann Herbert said Mexican feather grass (Nasella tenuissima) was very invasive and had the potential to infest pastures and native grasslands on the south coast.

"It can form monocultures, out-competing desirable plant species, and has no feed value," she said.

Mexican feather grass is a densely tufted tussock grass very similar to serrated tussock but slightly taller, growing to 0.8metres. It produces more seed than serrated tussock.

Recently this grass has been found for sale through retail outlets in Victoria under the names of pony tail and angel’s hair.

"Make sure you know what you are buying when you chose a plant for your garden – major weeds infestations have occurred from garden plants escaping," Ms Herbert said.

"Weeds officers and landholders are effectively managing the only known infestation of Chilean needle grass in the in the Shire.

"It was identified by the Botanical Gardens in Sydney after being handed to the Department of Primary Industries by a landholder. Quick action to prevent further spread has been successful.

"Be on the lookout for plants you do not recognise. If you find a plant you don’t know, take a sample to Council or the DPI for identification.

"That way a potential weed can be tackled when there are only a few plants to deal with.

"Carrying out a control program then costs less and prevents seed build-up in the soil and seed spread to other areas," Ms Herbert said.