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NQ DRY TROPICS WEED FREE
GIANT PARRAMATTA GRASS
Sporobolus fertillis
GIANT PARRAMATTA GRASS
GRASSES
DESCRIPTION
This is a clumping grass that grows up to 1.6 metres high .
Leaves when mature are tough blades . Giant Parramatta grass looks very similar to giant rat ’ s tail grass and can be difficult to tell apart .
Seed heads can be up to 50 centimetres long and between 1 and 2 centimetres wide . The branches of the seed head are pressed against the axis and overlap , although lower ones generally spread at maturity .
Habitat this grass adapts to a wide range of soils and conditions , including areas with low rainfall .
Weed characteristics it is aggressive and difficult for cattle to graze , reducing pasture productivity and causes significant degradation of natural areas . It can become a serious fire hazard . It replaces more productive types of grass , especially after overgrazing or soil disturbance .
Dispersal seeds can remain viable for up to 10 years and are spread by livestock , animals , on vehicles and machinery , in hay and untested pasture seed , and by fast flowing water .
BIOSECURITY MATTER
Restricted . This species is Category 3 Restricted matter under Queensland Legislation .
HOW TO ACT
Spraying with an appropriate herbicide is very effective . There are herbicides designed to target sporobolus grasses without harming other species . For scattered plants or isolated infestations hand chip , bag and removal of stool from paddock and burn . Dense infestations on arable land can be boom sprayed however ongoing treatment over a number of years is necessary . Grazing management methods can gain positive ongoing control .