| |
Source: Sydney Weeds Committe
Habitat
Pampas Grass spreads by wind borne seed or from rhizomes being dumped
into the bush. It is more common in disturbed and damp areas and
near roads. The dead leaves stay on the plant and smother other
plants and provide a haven for vermin.
Description
Pampas Grass was introduced into Australia in the late 19th century
as an ornamental garden plant and was also used for stock fodder
and as a wind break.
It grows as a large tussock-forming grass up to several metres wide.
The leaves grow to about 2 m long from a stem which may also be
about 2 m in length. The edge of these bluish-green leaves are finely
toothed and can cause a nasty cut if brushed against. Flowers can
be about 4 m high, with a white to pink feathery plume about 1 m
long.
Noxious Weed Category:
4
Control & Removal Methods
When removing Pampas Grass, wear protective clothing - long sleeves
and trousers, gloves and goggles - to prevent cuts from the sharp
leaves. First, cut back the leaves. Then remove any flower spikes
and put them in a bag in the rubbish bin to prevent them spreading
seed. Use a sharp mattock to sever the fibrous roots and then lever
the rhizomes out. By working on small sections at a time even large
Pampas Grass plants can be removed. Check the soil to make sure
no rhizome remains as the plant will regrow from it.
The old leaves can be used as a mulch as long as the rhizomes are
kept off the ground and allowed to dry out and die. Alternatively
the plant can be bundled up and put out in the green waste collection.
Glyphosate herbicide can be used but several applications may be
required.
|
|
|
