Mexican feather grass

• Densely tufted perennial tussock grass up to 70cm high.
• Seed heads are pale, 15–25cm long, lower glume is 9–10mm long.
• Leaves are thread-like, 0.25–0.5mm in diameter, about 60cm long.
• Flowers have single, bisexual floret per spikelet, surrounded by 2 persistent bracts or glumes.
• Stems are up to 70cm high.
• Similar to several species of Stipa grass.

• Prefers dry, temperate climate.
• Grows naturally in open woodlands and grasslands in North and South America.

• First detected in 2008 in Bulimba, Brisbane.

• Flowering occurs from August to February.
• Reproduces from seeds.
• Seeds can remain viable for up to 4 years.

Environmental

• Causes severe environmental damage to native grasslands.

Economic

• Invades productive pastures.

• Seeds spread by flooding, vehicles and machinery, and on clothing, livestock and fur of pets.

• Find out how farmers can prevent weed spread.
• Find out how gardeners and outdoor enthusiasts can prevent weed spread.

• Contact us online, by phone or in person if you find a plant you suspect may be Mexican feather grass, to seek advice on control options.

• Mexican feather grass is a restricted category 2, 3, 4 and 5 invasive plant under the Biosecurity Act 2014.
• It must not be given away, sold or released into the environment.
• The Act requires everyone to take all reasonable and practical measures to minimise the biosecurity risks associated with invasive plants under their control. This is called a general biosecurity obligation (GBO).
• At a local level, each local government must have a biosecurity plan that covers invasive plants in its area. This plan may include actions to be taken on Mexican feather grass. Some of these actions may be required under local laws. Contact your local government for more information.