NQ DRY TROPICS WEED FREE pg . 45
GAMBA GRASS
Andropogon gayanus
DESCRIPTION
This is a perennial tussock grass that grows up to 4.5 metres . The tussocks can grow to 70 centimetres wide . The root system spreads up to 1 metre from the tussock , close to the surface . Leaves are 30 to 60 centimetres long and up to 3 centimetres wide , with a distinctive white midrib and covered with soft hairs .
Stems are robust and covered in soft hairs .
Seeds are contained in a fluffy v-shaped seed head consisting of up to 6 groups of branches , each containing 2 to 18 primary branches .
Flowers in April .
Habitat it invades woodland and grassland communities with annual rainfall of 400 and 1,500 millimetres .
Weed characteristics infestations can alter soil nutrient cycles , water cycles and fire regimes . The plant ’ s high biomass can fuel intense bushfires . It competes with native pasture and invades non-grazed land such as conservation areas .
Dispersal is wind borne and is also transported as hay and on road side slashers . It spreads rapidly where natural vegetation is disturbed .
BIOSECURITY MATTER
Restricted . This species is Category 3 Restricted matter under Queensland Legislation . This species is also listed a Weed of National Significance ( WONS ).
HOW TO ACT
Spot spraying with a glysophate herbicide is the only effective treatment . Mechanical clearing or slashing can reduce standing vegetation , allowing access for herbicide treatment . Fire is not recommended for control with this grass .
GRASSES GAMBA GRASS