African feather grass
| Botanical Name | Pennisetum macrourum |
|---|---|
| Family | Poaceae |
| Origin | South Africa |
Identification
Grass forming large clumps with rhizomes (underground stems). Seed head stalks 2 m or more tall. Similar plant to pampas but with a slender and smaller seed head.Habitats
Pastures, roadsides, wasteland and urban areas. Likes damp situations such as swamps and along the borders of streams, but can tolerate drought and establish on dry shady banks; prefers light sandy soil. In the Bay of Plenty Region most sites of African feather are found around the Rotorua Lakes.Impact to Biota and Ecosystems
Forms dense clumps that exclude other vegetation.Dispersal Routes, Vectors, Infestation Sources
New colonies will arise from moved or broken rhizomes. Barbed bristles on seed husk assist dispersal by wind and in animal hair.Management
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Management |
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| Physical Control |
Unpalatable to stock. |
| Disposal |
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| Chemical Control |
(i) Glyphosate - Handgun 1.5 litres Glyphosate + 150 ml Penetrant/100 litres of water or Knapsack 150 ml Glyphosate + 20 ml Penetrant / 10 litres water. (ii) Gallant and crop oil. Rate - Handgun 500 ml Gallant + 500 ml crop oil or Uptake oil /100 litres water. Knapsack 150 ml Gallant + 50 ml crop oil/10 litres water. |
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Biological Control |
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| Recommended Approach |
Spray annually to eradicate small isolated areas. Contain and reduce larger areas. Aim to contain and prevent further spread short term, and eradicate long term. |
Further Comment
African Feather grass is an Eradication Pest Plant within the Bay of Plenty Region. Any sighting of African Feather Grass should be reported to a Pest Plants Officer. They will make arrangements for control of the plant. For further information please refer to Bay of Plenty Regional Council's Fact Sheet on African Feather Grass.
This plant is prohibited from propagation, sale and distribution within New Zealand!