Managing weeds for

Recorded distribution (including urban locations): ● Fountain grass Feathergrasses and mission grasses ( setaceum) ● Mission grass (Pennisetum ) ()

The problem into pastures and native vegetation. of flammable biomass than native Feathertop has been identified as a grasses, grows into the dry season and A number of species in the grass threat to biodiversity and is also a can result in more intense fires which Pennisetum have been introduced to weed of pastures in NSW. Fountain kill the native tree species that would Feathergrasses and mission grasses and become naturalised. grass is a declared weed in Qld and otherwise survive less extreme fire They were generally introduced for NSW, but it is still sold as a garden events. Deenanth grass is a weed ornamental purposes, soil stabilisation in other states. African of grain sorghum crops in northern or fodder. The feathergrass group, feathergrass dominates riparian zones Australia and is also known to invade which contains fountain grass and can infest pastures. Swamp foxtail native vegetation. (P. setaceum), feathertop (P. villosum) (P. alopecuroides), though considered Many perennial grass weeds are and African feathergrass (P. macrourum) to be native in parts of NSW and Qld, invading Australia’s native vegetation, is widespread, especially in southern has been widely planted and is a weed particularly grasslands, woodlands, and eastern Australia. The two in Vic., especially in East Gippsland. mission grass species, mission grass Most Pennisetum species have received (P. polystachion) and deenanth (or annual relatively little attention in weed Key points mission) grass (P. pedicellatum) are research in Australia and their ecology largely confined to northern Australia. and impacts are not well documented. • A number of introduced, mostly perennial Pennisetum species are a threat to biodiversity – Pennisetum These grasses have spread to roadsides, Mission grass has invaded tropical in northern savannas and southern Australia. rail corridors, along watercourses and savannas. It produces greater amounts • Fountain grass and related , as well as swamp foxtail that has become a weed outside its native range, are commonly planted in gardens and used in landscaping. species • Many species form large, dense tussocks and may alter fire regimes. • produce numerous, hairy burrs that are readily dispersed by wind, water, animals and human activities. • Rhizomes are the major means of spread in some species. • Most active growth is in summer provided there is adequate moisture. • Small infestations can be dug out. • Tussocks can be spot sprayed with herbicide when actively growing. Improved results may Fountain grass (Pennisetum setaceum) planted along a roadside has spread into adjacent bushland: Brisbane, Queensland. be obtained by treating regrowth after removing Photo: S. Navie old foliage. Treatment must be followed up. 2

rangelands and coastal areas. Invasive grasses displace native plants and can also contribute to changed fire regimes that affect native vegetation structure and biodiversity. Besides Pennisetum species, they include needlegrasses (Nassella spp.), veldt grasses (Ehrharta spp.), buffel grass ( ciliaris), Coolatai grass (Hyparrhenia hirta), wheat-grasses (Thinopyrum spp.), Rhodes grass (Chloris gayana) and African lovegrass (Eragrostis curvula). Gamba grass (Andropogon gayanus) is a particular threat to tropical savannas. Several of these are also sown as pastures in Australia.

The weeds Swamp foxtail () is widely planted and has become naturalised outside its native Australian range, especially in Vic. It is very similar to fountain grass (P. setaceum). Photo: S. Navie species Pennisetum species in Australia are generally perennial tussock grasses. Exceptions include deenanth grass Similar native species flowering, they can be distinguished which generally grows as an annual by close examination of the bristles and kikuyu (P. clandestinum) which is Swamp foxtail has been included in the as described in the table. The colour a perennial, low growing or prostrate ‘Pennisetum species in Australia’ table

– Pennisetum of the flower head is somewhat turf species. Flowers of the tussock because it is a weed in Vic., although variable in some species and colourful species are arranged in a conspicuous, it is considered to be native in parts of heads fade to a light straw colour as spike-like head that in some species NSW and Qld: note the features of the they mature. is purple to pink when fresh. Other flowerhead and bristles that distinguish Kikuyu grass is planted as lawn and species have straw coloured to white it from fountain grass and African pasture but is also an environmental flower heads. The hairy burrs consist feathergrass. weed. Its flowers are largely hidden in of individual flowers or flower clusters Spotter’s grass (Pennisetum basedowii) the leaves and in Australia it spreads with their bristles. These contain the is a native tussock grass, 0.1–1.4 m tall. by runners. It is not considered further seed and are readily dispersed. Some The flowers of this species are cream in this guide. species also spread by rhizomes. Most or purple and occur from March to active growth is from spring to autumn August. The bristles of the burrs lack How they spread and above ground foliage may die off long feathery hairs. It grows in clay in winter. This dry material accumulates,

Feathergrasses and mission grasses on floodplains of northern Australia. Feathergrasses and mission grasses becoming a fuel hazard and can exclude produce seed in burrs, with the fluffy other species and choke watercourses. Common native tussock grasses with burrs being carried by water, wind, dense, hairy flower heads in southern on animals, clothing or vehicles. In Generally tussock Pennisetum species Australia include bottle washers some species (African feathergrass, are not very palatable to stock but (Enneapogon nigricans) and some feathertop and elephant grass) the on other continents in tropical regions species of wallaby grass (Danthonia clumps expand by rhizomes. Spread young shoots of elephant grass species). (P. purpureum) are a major source of these rhizomes can be facilitated by cultivation or grubbing and the of cut fodder. Deenanth grass is a Weed identification pasture species in . detached rhizome sections can form Introduced Pennisetum species in new plants. In southern Australia, southern Australia with a tussock habit establishment from seed may be may look similar and are often difficult episodic or relatively uncommon, to distinguish from each other. When especially in rhizomatous species.

Weed Management Guide • Feathergrasses and mission grasses – Pennisetum species 3

Pennisetum species in Australia: main species and features

SpeciesStatus and Habit and Flowers, seedhead, Legislation Distribution habitat flowering bristles and alert season listing Fountain grass Weed Perennial; dense Flower head 10–12 cm long, Declared in ACT, NSW, NT, Qld, or African Woodlands, tussocks to 0.9 m purple, maturing to light NSW, Qld SA, Vic., WA fountain grass grasslands, tall; leaves rough straw-coloured Weed Alert Origin: northern (Pennisetum coastal to touch Bristles feathery near base in NSW and tropical , setaceum) vegetation, rail Flowers in spring Bristles mostly to 26 mm Still sold Middle East Photo: S. Navie embankments, and summer long, one per spikelet is as an roadsides, mines much longer (to 40 mm) ornamental

Swamp foxtail Native in NSW, Perennial; tussocks Flower head 7–20 cm long, Not declared NSW, Qld (native) (Pennisetum Qld.; weed in to 1 m tall may be purple ACT, Vic. alopecuroides) Vic. Flowers in Bristles not feathery (naturalised) Photo: S. Navie Wetlands, summer Inner bristles 15–30 mm Origin: , riparian areas, long, outer whorl shorter Australia* swamps, ditches Feathergrasses and mission grasses Feathertop Weed Perennial; untidy Flower head 2–12 cm long, Declared in ACT, NSW, Qld, SA, or longstyle Grasslands, open tussocks usually generally pale green to Tas., and in Tas., Vic., WA feathergrass woodlands, 10–50 cm tall almost white certain local Origin: north-east (Pennisetum roadsides, (taller in moist Bristles feathery near base government Africa and Yemen villosum) sites); short areas in NSW pastures Bristles unequal in length, Photo: S. Navie rhizomes longer ones 30–70 mm long Flowers in summer

African Weed Perennial; dense, Flower head 8–30 cm long; Declared in ACT, NSW, SA, Tas., feathergrass Riparian areas, erect tussocks straw-coloured NSW, SA, Vic., WA (Pennisetum pastures to 1.8 m tall; Bristles not feathery Tas., Vic. Localised to certain macrourum) rhizomes up to One bristle per spikelet Weed Alert catchments in these Photo: J. Virtue, 2 m long in NSW states SA DWLBC is longer, (5–20 mm) and Flowers in summer thicker Origin: Africa, Yemen

Elephant grass Weed Perennial; large, Flower head 8–30 cm long, Not declared NSW, NT, Qld, WA – Pennisetum (Pennisetum Tropical and bamboo-like usually yellow—brown Origin: tropical purpureum) subtropical clumps to 4 Bristles not feathery, most Africa Photo: S. Navie regions, also (7.5) m tall, with 10–16 mm long; one longer near Perth rhizomes and bristle per spikelet, up to stolons Riparian areas, 40 mm long roadsides in Flowers in summer species wetter regions Mission grass Weed Perennial; tussocks Flower head 3–25 cm long, Declared NT, Qld (Pennisetum Native tropical to 3 m tall yellow—brown in NT Origin: Tropical polystachion or savanna Flowering begins Bristles numerous, 4–12 mm Africa and polystachyon) woodlands early in the long, one longer bristle per Macronesia Photo: wet season spikelet, 6–25 mm long C. Wilson

Deenanth or Weed Annual or Flower head 5–15 cm long, Not declared NT, Qld, WA annual mission Infests grain persistent, cream-coloured with a Origin: Tropical grass sorghum crops; tussocks to 1.5 m purple tinge Africa, India and (Pennisetum invades tall with lateral Bristles numerous, woolly Macronesia pedicellatum) roadsides and branches near base, one longer bristle Photo: other disturbed Flowers early in per spikelet, 16–24 mm long C. Wilson sites the dry season

*Some authorities question whether swamp foxtail is native to Australia—it may have been introduced before European settlement.

Weed Management Guide • Feathergrasses and mission grasses – Pennisetum species 4

wetlands. Feathergrasses are found in Mediterranean, temperate and subtropical climates in Australia, and mission grasses occur in tropical savannas in northern Australia. Elephant grass is mainly established in eastern Qld and NSW.

Fountain grass is tolerant of a relatively wide range of climatic conditions and has an extensive distribution in Australia. It is widely naturalised in coastal and agricultural regions, generally spreading along roadsides and rail corridors from plantings. It has also been recorded in more arid regions, generally around towns. African feathergrass is well established, mainly along watercourses Feathertop () has short rhizomes and commonly spreads along roadsides. It is in regions with reliable rainfall in all unpalatable and can infest pastures. It is often confused with fountain grass. Photo: S. Navie southern states. Feathertop mostly species occurs in southern Australia where annual average rainfall is 400 mm or Fountain grass and swamp foxtail are and the USA. Fountain grass is of more. It has been recorded on roadsides, commonly grown in gardens and used particular concern in where it at urban waste places and in native in landscape plantings, as are various alters natural fire regimes and threatens vegetation, and it infests pastures

– Pennisetum pennisetum cultivars. Plants and seeds native vegetation. African feathergrass in NSW. in dumped garden waste can lead to is a weed in New Zealand. Elephant grass infestations. Mission grasses can be is a weed of watercourses and native spread through use of contaminated vegetation in South Africa and is also Potential distribution mulch hay in northern Australia. listed as a weed on other continents. Climate mapping indicates that there Fountain grass seed may survive for Pennisetum species generally grow is considerable potential for spread of up to 7 years in the soil and seed set in open situations including roadsides, most Pennisetum species into regions does not require fertilisation. African pastures and other disturbed sites. where they do not currently occur. feathergrass seed is not long-lived but They invade grasslands, woodlands, Mission grass is well established in the a few seeds may remain viable in the riparian and coastal zones, and Top End of the NT and in parts of Qld, soil for several years. Elephant grass is mainly propagated vegetatively.

Deenanth grass produces very high Feathergrasses and mission grasses numbers of seed that generally germinate in the following wet season and are not long-lived in soil. Mission grass seed also mainly germinates in the following wet season but a small proportion may persist in the soil.

Where they grow

Introduced Pennisetum species originate from Africa, the Middle East and Asia but are widely naturalised on

other continents. Fountain grass and Mission grass (Pennisetum polystachion) infestation: Top End NT. feathertop are weeds in South Africa Photo: C. Wilson

Weed Management Guide • Feathergrasses and mission grasses – Pennisetum species 5

Strategic weeding in native vegetation essential to have the species identified correctly. For example it is important to Native vegetation Weeds determine whether populations mainly spread via rhizomes or seed and to recognise swamp foxtail within its native range where it is not a weed.

Prevent Pennisetum species spreading

• Raise awareness of alternative plants which can be substituted for weedy Weed from the least weed-infested bush towards weed-dominated areas Pennisetum species, among gardeners, landscapers, nursery suppliers and but has the potential to spread more majority germinate with the onset road managers. Increase community widely in northern Australia. Fountain of the wet season. capacity to recognise Pennisetum grass could become established more species that are declared, naturalised widely, including in semi arid regions. What to do about it or present in ornamental plantings Feathergrasses and mission grasses and to remove plantings that become Growth cycle It is more practical and cost-effective weeds. Garden waste should be to prevent weed problems than to disposed of at appropriate facilities. Pennisetum species are summer-active remove them, thus early detection • Raise awareness about spread of grasses. Feathergrasses mainly flower is critical. Through coordinated and mission grasses caused by using between spring and autumn, depending consistent action, the spread of mulch hay contaminated with on species, seasonal conditions and Pennisetum species may be prevented. Pennisetum species. location. Plants may be almost dormant In regions where one or more • Identify locations where there are in winter. New shoots of African Pennisetum species is well established, isolated plants or sparse populations. feathergrass arise from rhizomes and a long-term management program at Target control measures to these crowns in spring, whilst seed germinates the local or property scale can reduce areas first to keep uninfested areas (rarely) in autumn. The seed of mission the weeds’ harmful effects, help to free of the weed. grasses are shed during the early to contain their spread and encourage • Contain existing infestations. Remove – Pennisetum mid dry season (April to July) and the native vegetation to recover. It is seedlings and treat isolated plants or clumps first and ensure follow up with physical or chemical treatment. • Practise weed hygiene during

slashing, road grading and hay species making. Slash from uninfested towards infested areas, preferably when not seeding. Cultivation can spread weeds, especially rhizomatous Pennisetum species. In paddocks, avoid infestations when cutting and making hay. Source mulch hay that is weed-free.

Reduce established infestations

Where large infestations of Pennisetum species occur in native vegetation a planned, strategic approach is essential African feathergrass (Pennisetum macrourum) is mainly a weed of riparian areas and pastures. to ensure that the weed is replaced by Photo: Matthew Baker, Tasmanian Herbarium

Weed Management Guide • Feathergrasses and mission grasses – Pennisetum species 6

• Select the most suitable control method for each growth stage to avoid damage to native vegetation. Plan appropriate disposal of weed material in accordance with legislation. • Prepare a weed management calendar to maximise the effectiveness of control activities. Plan herbicide treatment before seeding.

3. Implement the action plan • Remove pennisetum plants from the least infested areas into the more infested areas. Ensure that activities do not spread the seed or disturb native ground cover. Avoid physical removal while the weed is seeding. Adapt to local seasonal conditions. Elephant grass (Pennisetum purpureum) has rhizomes and can form very tall, large clumps. • Follow up weed regrowth each year species Photo: S. Navie in areas previously treated before moving to new areas of infestation. desirable plant cover rather than weed • Values and risks: identify native • Coordinate control programs with seedlings and regrowth of the target fauna habitat values and high-risk neighbouring landholders to species or other weeds. As well as the sites for erosion potential and maximise effectiveness and reduce – Pennisetum information presented in this guide on other factors. ongoing spread. the biology and control of Pennisetum 2. Develop the site action plan 4. Monitor and evaluate outcomes species, the plan needs to be based • Identify goals and priorities based and adapt the plan accordingly on specific knowledge about the site— on the site information. including the distribution of other Include monitoring of native plant major weeds. • Define priority areas for control by regeneration to determine its response overlaying maps of weed density, to weed control. In weed management Develop and implement a long-term native vegetation, site values and risks. programs there is often a tendency to weed management plan. • Plan to weed strategically: focus on the removal of weeds as a 1. Investigate the site – protect the better quality native goal, but at the site level the ultimate • Identify all plant species: especially vegetation first and consider the goal is restoration of native vegetation weeds that could occupy the site needs of native fauna and flora or productive pastures for grazing after control has been implemented – work from isolated pennisetum properties. Feathergrasses and mission grasses and native plants that need to be plants towards core infestations protected during treatments. – control plants from upstream to Control methods Determine which Pennisetum species downstream. Mature perennial grass tussocks are are present and whether they mainly • The size of the area targeted at each difficult to destroy because they can spread by seed or rhizomes. stage should be manageable enough be very large and can regrow from the • Map weed infestations: indicate to follow up thoroughly. Weed control roots (and rhizomes, if present) if the weed density throughout the site, that is not followed up is wasteful tops are cut or burnt. In selecting the identify major sources of seed. and can cause a bigger problem. most suitable control techniques it is • Map native vegetation condition: • Include control of other weeds so essential to minimise adverse impacts assess its capacity for recovery after that they do not establish where the on native vegetation and to encourage the target weeds are removed and target weed has been removed. its subsequent recovery. Different identify sites of high biodiversity Prepare a monitoring plan. methods may be appropriate for sparse value, such as rare flora. plants amongst native vegetation,

Weed Management Guide • Feathergrasses and mission grasses – Pennisetum species Feathergrasses and mission grasses – Pennisetum species species species would be species, providing it is species, providing Pennisetum Pennisetum more effective to undertake control to effective more seeding. before Combined treatment of Combined treatment extensive infestations leaves Dry foliage may shield green herbicide spray and seasonal from the effectiveness variations may reduce For feathergrasses, initial of treatment. slashing of old foliage followed by after sufficient growth spraying fresh Slashing results. rainfall can improve may be impractical for an extensive in infestation unless it can be treated stages. Spraying and burning be may extensive stands combined to control of mission grass in northern Australia, however Chemical control in controlling Herbicide can be effective Pennisetum applied chosen and selectively carefully off-target and to minimise regrowth herbicide damage. The range of limited and the available is treatments at the growing plants must be actively time of application. Foliar spray Feathergrasses and mission grasses be can be sprayed with herbicide. To spraying should be undertaken effective, rate is high, and the when the growth herbicide applied to as much green foliage as possible. In native vegetation, spot spray using hand-held equipment (handgun and hose or knapsack) damage. Species minimises off-target to several such as mission grass grow tall, which makes them difficult metres Spray mission grasses to spot spray. seeding or at early head stage. before It is essential to follow up by targeting and seedlings when actively regrowth growing. burning. by repeated Follow promoted with further spraying up all treatment or grubbing of surviving plants and seedlings when actively growing. 7 making sure that all the roots are that all the roots making sure feasible for This is more removed. species that do not form rhizomes. is essential as Follow up control In the case of may occur. regrowth deenanth grass, it is essential to seeds mature. before plants remove species this should be For perennial undertaken whenever possible. Most mission grass seed germinates at the start of the wet season and it is much ) bristles are feathery towards the base. feathery towards ) bristles are ) becoming straw coloured. purple flowerheads are Pennisetum Pennisetum setaceum Pennisetum setaceum species. Management Guide • Feathergrasses grasses and mission – Weed Weed Physical weed removal Seedlings, small plants and small infestations can be dug out (grubbed), compared with areas where weeds are where with areas compared weedy dominant. Where consult local species infest a pasture, authorities for more weed control detailed advice. No biological control agents have been identified for Pennisetum Photo: S. Navie Fountain grass ( Fountain grass ( Photo: S. Navie 8 species

Deenanth grass () infestation: Top End, NT. Photo: C.Wilson

– Pennisetum Registered herbicides for zone required around water bodies. for sources of advice in that state. Under Pennisetum species Use special formulations for such the Northern Territory Agricultural and environments where appropriate. Veterinary Chemicals (Control of Use) Most Pennisetum species are not listed Act 2004, a person does not contravene on registered herbicide labels, but Permits the legislation if the person uses a grass-specific herbicides containing registered agricultural chemical product A ‘Permit to allow minor use of an flupropanate are registered for spot to control a pest not specified in the AGVET chemical product’ may be spraying African feathergrass in Tas. instructions unless the instructions issued to allow registered products to and WA. The active constituent has on the approved label prohibit use be used for a purpose or in a manner some residual herbicide action in the in that way. that is not included on the approved soil that could have an impact on label. Permits that include spot Glyphosate is a non-residual, systemic surrounding vegetation and subsequent treatment of environmental weeds chemical and is non-selective, affecting regeneration. Glyphosate is a registered (perennial grasses) with glyphosate in both broad-leaved plants and grasses.

Feathergrasses and mission grasses herbicide for grasses generally, but the some situations exist in Tas., WA, Qld, Care is needed to prevent contact with timing and details of application must SA, NSW and the ACT. A permit also off-target species. Where legally be adapted to the species and the exists for glyphosate application to permitted, it can be applied to individual situation. perennial tussock grasses on roadsides weed plants in native vegetation by When using herbicides always read the via rope wick applicator after prior community groups, landholders and label and follow instructions carefully. slashing. Refer to the Australian public land managers. Penetrant is At least one member of a group should Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines sometimes added to increase the have formal training in the safe storage, Authority website to find the relevant effectiveness of the herbicide, but handling, preparation and use of the permit for your state or territory and involves greater risk of off-target herbicide. Particular care should be obtain advice on local conditions from damage and its suitability is limited taken near waterways because rainfall the permit holder. Also consult in sensitive situations such as riparian runoff can carry herbicides into community groups working on weed zones and native vegetation. Refer waterways and wetlands. Check with grasses in your region. Refer to the fact to product labels. local authorities on the width of buffer sheet ‘Off label chemical use in Victoria’

Weed Management Guide • Feathergrasses and mission grasses – Pennisetum species 9 ...case study Mission grass invasion and restoration of tropical savanna woodlands

The current extent of mission grass is potential for self-driven, or autogenic species. It also enhanced germination (Pennisetum polystachion) in northern recovery following mission grass control. in the season following control and Australia is relatively limited compared aided in the retention of nitrate in the The effect of exotic grass management to its potential distribution across the system. Thus, autogenic recovery is on the native plant community is initiated and a transition from exotic savanna region, but it is considered another area of research (Brooks et al grass-invaded savanna woodland to a major threat due to its impact on in prep.). Fire and the non-selective native grass savanna woodland can ecosystem structure and function. herbicide glyphosate are widely used occur. In contrast, the second treatment There is an urgent need to understand to manage mission grass, with burning interrupted flowering and therefore the degradation process and develop predominantly taking place in the early reduced seeding of annual species and restoration strategies. PhD student Kris dry season, and herbicide application exposed soil to rain impact for the Brooks has been funded* to research occurring throughout the wet season. remainder of the wet season. In the the impact of mission and gamba grass Two management methods were two seasons following control there (Andropogon gayanus) invasion and compared in this research: was substantially reduced establishment its management, on the restoration 1. glyphosate application in the late of the herbaceous layer, increased area potential of savanna woodlands in the wet season (late March) just prior of bare ground and increased potential Feathergrasses and mission grasses Darwin region. to flowering, followed by an early for nitrate to leach from the system. Savanna woodland with understorey dry season burn Though the long-term outcome is not dominated by mission grass was 2. an early dry season burn (in line known, the study indicated that compared with uninvaded understorey with common practice) to reduce inappropriate management of mission sites (Brooks et al in press). Invasion biomass, and glyphosate application grass-invaded savanna woodland may by mission grass was associated with early in the following wet season push the system in an unintended a decrease in understorey species (early January). direction and highlights the importance richness and a change in species of incorporating restoration outcomes The results indicated that both composition and community structure. into weed management programs. treatments reduced the abundance of In particular, perennial and annual grass References for this study can be found under native perennial species. However the and forb abundance was substantially Brooks in the ‘References and further first method resulted in less bare soil information’ section. reduced. Although such above-ground being exposed to the damaging impact * funding by Land and Water Australia’s changes were detected at the invaded of wet season rains and it allowed for Defeating the Weeds Menace Programme, – Pennisetum sites, the native soil seedbank was replenishment of the soil seedbank, Charles Darwin University and the Tropical Savannas CRC. relatively intact, indicating that there which is dominated by native annual species

Experimental plots in April 2007, two wet seasons after treatment illustrating from left to right: a) a non-invaded species-rich native plant understorey; b) the dense establishment of the native annual grass (Pseudopogonatherum irritans) in plots sprayed in the late wet season (note unsprayed perennial mission grass (Pennisetum polystachion) flowering in the background); and c) the sparse establishment of annual cover in plots sprayed in the early wet season. Photos: Kris Brooks

Weed Management Guide • Feathergrasses and mission grasses – Pennisetum species Feathergrasses and mission grasses – Pennisetum species missiongrass( • feathertop( • Africanfeathergrass( • fountaingrass( • regional level: and somedeclarationsare atthe vary from statetoandbyspecies tailored toyoursituation. of NationalSignificanceandAlertListspecies.TheIntroductory Weed ManagementManual(alsoavailablefrom thiswebsite)may Refer totheCRCforAustralianWeed Managementwebsite(www.weedscrc.org.au) forweedmanagementguidesinthisseries,aswel groups workingon Consult thenaturalresource managementorganisationforyourregion orlocalcounciltofindcontactsonmanagingweedsforbi database whichcontainsinformationonallherbicidesthatare registered foruseonweedsineachAustralianstateandterrito Contact detailsforstateandterritoryagencieswithresponsibility forweedsare listedabove,alongwiththeAPVMA.TheAPVM Requirements for minimise spread intouninfestedareas. required toreduce weedimpactsand Control bylandholdersmaybe and accidentalordeliberatemovement. Declared plantsare prohibited from sale Legislation Contacts Weed Australia-wide entry toWA. declared intheNTandprohibited of NSWandinTas. areas plant in15localgovernment and someregions inVic. is adeclared plantinNSW, SA,Tas., the statelevel declared plantinNSWandQldat Territory State / NSW ACT Tas. WA Qld Vic. NT SA Management Guide • Feathergrasses and mission grasses – – andmission grasses Guide •Feathergrasses Management P. villosum Pennisetum Dept ofPrimaryIndustriesandWater Australian PesticidesandVeterinary P. polystachion P. setaceum Pennisetum Dept ofTerritory andMunicipal Medicines Authority(APVMA) Dept ofAgriculture andFood Dept ofNaturalResources, Dept ofPrimaryIndustries Dept ofPrimaryIndustries Dept ofPrimaryIndustries Dept ofSustainabilityand Environment andtheArts Biodiversity Conservation Dept ofWater, Landand P. macrourum ) isadeclared species. Department and Fisheries Environment Services ) isa species ) is ) may beregulated bylegislation. significantly damagenativevegetation location. Weed control thatcould current information relevant toyour See thecontactstableforsources of Darwin University. Case study:KristineBrooks, Charles avh.cgi. www.rbg.vic.gov.au/cgi-bin/avhpublic/ Herbaria. Council ofHeadsAustralian Royal BotanicGardens Melbourne, ( Map: Australia’s Herbarium, Virtual NT DRDPIFR. Qld EPA; I.MillerandA.Cameron, Tasmanian Herbarium;D.Butler, SADWLBC;M.Baker,Dr J.G.Virtue, Setterfield, CharlesDarwinUniversity; Information andguiderevision: DrS.A. Acknowledgments P. setaceum (02) 62104700 (08) 93683333 (08) 83039620 (08) 89994567 1300 368550 1800 680244 136186 132523 131555 132281 Phone and 10 P. polystachion [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] ), via Email N/A N/A N/A savannas. regeneration inAustralia’s tropical of exoticgrassmanagementon or degradation:Theshortterm effects Douglas, M.M.(inprep.) Restoration Brooks, K.J.,Setterfield,S.A.,and Restoration Ecology Australia’snorthern tropical savannas. degradation andrestoration in framework tothedynamicsof invasions: Applyingaconceptual Douglas, M.M.(Inpress). Exoticgrass Brooks, K.J.,Setterfield,S.A.and pp. 223–226. Society ofSouthAustralia,Adelaide, Weeds Conference (eds). Preston, J.H.Watts andN.D.Crossman Australian tropical savanna. native plantcommunitiesinanorth of glyphosateapplication:impactson Douglas M.M.(2006).Seasonaltiming Brooks, K.J., Setterfield,S.A.and information andfurther References Proceedings ofthe15thAustralian Pennisetum ry, includingminorusepermits. www.nt.gov.au/nreta/natres/ www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/weeds A websitehoststhePUBCRIS www.tams.act.gov.au/live/ assistindevelopingaplan odiversity, includingcommunity www.dpiw.tas.gov.au/ www.dwlbc.sa.gov.au www.agric.wa.gov.au www.dpi.qld.gov.au/ www.apvma.gov.au www.dse.vic.gov.au www.dpi.vic.gov.au weeds/index.html . Weed Management environment/ l asguidesforWeeds . Website In species C. 11

Rossiter, N.A., Setterfield, S.A., Douglas, M.M., Hutley, L.B. and Cook, G. (2008). Exotic grass invasion increases fire-mediated nitrogen losses in the tropical savannas of northern Australia. Ecosystems 11:77–88.

Smith, N.M. (2002). Weeds of the wet / dry tropics of Australia. Environment Centre NT, Darwin.

Walsh, N.G. and Entwisle, T.J. (eds) (1994). Flora of Victoria Volume 2: Ferns and allied plants, conifers and . Inkata Press.

Weeds Australia website: www.weeds.org.au

Weeds in Australia website: Feathergrasses and mission grasses Feathertop (Pennisetum villosum) burrs have long bristles that are feathery towards the base. www.weeds.gov.au/ Photo: S. Navie Knowledge gaps Clayton, W.D., Harman, K.T. and NSW Dept of Primary Industries (nd). Williamson, H. (2006 onwards). Weed Alerts: Fountain grass (Pennisetum Most Pennisetum species have received GrassBase—The Online World setaceum) and African feather grass relatively little attention in weed Grass Flora. (Pennisetum macrourum). research in Australia and their ecology www.kew.org/data/grasses-db.html www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/weeds and impacts are not well documented. Cook, B.G., Pengelly, B.C., Brown, S.D., Parsons, W.T. and Cuthbertson, E.G. A lack of such information limits the Donnelly, J.L., Eagles, D.A., Franco, M.A., (2000). Noxious weeds of Australia, accuracy of weed risk assessment for Hanson, J., Mullen, B.F., Partridge, I.J., 2nd edition. CSIRO publishing. particular species and regions. Effective Peters, M. and Schultze-Kraft, R. (2005). techniques for broad-scale management Rossiter, N.A., Setterfield S.A., Douglas

Tropical Forages: an interactive selection of introduced grasses to conserve – Pennisetum M.M. and Hutley, L.B. (2003). Testing tool. CSIRO, DPI&F (Qld), CIAT and ILRI, native ecosystems are needed, especially the grass-fire cycle: alien grass invasion Brisbane, Australia. in northern Australia. in the tropical savannas of northern www.tropicalforages.info/ Australia. Diversity and Distributions Department of Primary Industries, 9:169–76. Water and Environment, Tasmania species (2002). Service sheet for African feathergrass (Pennisetum macrourum). www.dpiw.tas.gov.au

Harden, G.J. (1993). Flora of NSW. Volume 4. NSW University Press.

Miller, I. (2006). Management of mission grass (Pennisetum polystachion). DPIFM Agnote No: F38. NT Government.

North West weeds website: www.northwestweeds.nsw.gov.au

African feathergrass (Pennisetum macrourum) infestation. Photo: J. Virtue, SA DWLBC

Weed Management Guide • Feathergrasses and mission grasses – Pennisetum species Quick reference guide

Regional / local status of Not yet established Small, isolated outbreaks Widely established Management Prevent establishment Eradicate Contain infestations and mitigate threats goals Strategies Practise weed hygiene Do not allow young stands Native vegetation: required Raise community awareness to seed Identify high priority biodiversity assets under threat from and capacity to recognise Treat manually or use Pennisetum species the weeds and the problem herbicide with minimal Protect these assets through implementing long-term site Monitor, detect and identify disturbance management plans possible new infestations Follow up Public and private gardens: Prevent re-establishment Replace any known weedy species or invasion by other weeds Monitor specimens of other species and remove if seedlings

species and encourage natural found regeneration of native Roadsides and other corridors: vegetation Map infestations and practise weed hygiene to prevent spread along and from roadsides into native vegetation Pastures: Control declared species and encourage non-weedy competitive grasses – Pennisetum Vegetation management particularly difficult to remove by physical Follow up or weed control? methods. Where appropriate, old growth may be removed by slashing or burning It is essential to monitor for regrowth Adopt a strategic, integrated, long-term and regrowth treated with herbicide. from root crowns and rhizomes after approach to maximise restoration Care is needed to avoid off-target physical or chemical treatment and follow up thoroughly. of native vegetation or pasture and damage in native vegetation and minimise reinvasion by weeds. contamination near watercourses. Natural regeneration of native plants Prevent weed is the best form of revegetation, but in Apply herbicides during re-establishment sites dominated by pennisetums over periods of active growth many years, there may be no native Once mature plants have been plants or seed remaining. Where this Herbicide should only be applied when killed, the focus is on preventing re-establishment from seeds. is the case, establish a range of locally plants are leafy and actively growing, collected indigenous plants, including preferably before the flower heads • Avoid large-scale disturbance that Feathergrasses and mission grasses native grasses. mature. Avoid hot or wet conditions, would create extensive areas of bare or periods when plants are under stress, soil, such as too-frequent fire in as specified on the herbicide labels. native vegetation or overgrazing Adapt the control method in pasture. to the species and the • Identify likely weed seed or rhizome Consider disposal options situation sources, dispersal agents and patterns of invasion. If seed heads or rhizomes are left on the Pennisetum species occur in a wide site they may regrow. Destroy them • Monitor weed-free areas every year range of environmental conditions and on site. to detect and remove seedlings and land uses. Rhizomatous species are resprouts before they seed.

© 2008 Information which appears in this guide may be reproduced without written permission provided the source of the information is acknowledged. ISBN: 978-1-920932-75-6

Disclaimer While every care is taken to ensure the accuracy of the information in this publication, the CRC for Australian Weed Management takes no responsibility for its contents, or for any loss, damage or consequence for any person or body relying on the information, or for any error or omission in this publication.