pg . 50
NQ DRY TROPICS WEED FREE
PARRAMATTA GRASS
Sporobolus africanus
PARRAMATTA GRASS
GRASSES
DESCRIPTION
This is a perennial grass which grows up to 50 centimetres tall and has fibrous roots . Parramatta grass is similar in appearance to giant rat ’ s tail grass and it can be difficult to tell them apart .
Leaves are blue-green , up to 5 millimetres wide , six to 18 centimetres long , and can be erect or spreading .
Flowers are dark green , a 2 to 20 centimetre spike-like panicle and up to 2 centimetre spikelets . Seed heads are green , up to 20 centimetres long . The seeds are brown and about 1 millimetre wide .
Habitat wet swampy areas but prefers areas with compacted soil and roadsides .
Weed characteristics invades pastures and replaces productive grasses and is known to dominate wetlands .
Dispersal It spreads mainly in soil on machinery and vehicles . The seeds become sticky when damp and can adhere to animals and clothes .
BIOSECURITY MATTER
This species is not listed under Queensland Legislation however it may be listed under local government law and control is highly recommended .
HOW TO ACT
Spraying with an appropriate herbicide is very effective . There are herbicides designed to only take out sporobolus grasses without harming other species . For scattered plants or isolated infestations hand chip , bag and removal of stool from paddock and burn . Grazing management methods can gain positive ongoing control .