NQ DRY TROPICS WEED FREE pg . 51
ELEPHANT GRASS
Cenchrus purpureus
DESCRIPTION
Elephant grass is a tufted perennial grass that can grow in stands up to 4 metres high . It is similar in appearance to sugarcane but has narrower leaves and does not grow to the same height ( cane will grow to 6 metres ).
Leaves are pale green up to 4 centimetres wide with a strong midrib tapering to a fine point . Flowers are large and range in colour from yellow to purple and can be up to 30 centimetres long . Each flower head has fine bristles along the spike .
Habitat it can grow wild on roadsides and is common in coastal areas or riparian and other moist areas .
Weed characteristics it forms bamboo-like , densely tufted clumps that invade bushland vegetation . It can persist in disturbed areas , outcompeting native vegetation .
Dispersal garden plantings and dumping of garden waste in bushland are the main sources of infestation . Unmanaged forage plantings that are not grazed also contribute to infestations .
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
As the the plants are normally very tall , it is advisable to slash the plant and use herbicide to control the regrowth . This plant can be controlled by spot spraying with an appropriate herbicide . For scattered plants or isolated infestations hand chip , bag and removal of stool from paddock and burn .
GRASSES ELEPHANT GRASS