NQ DRY TROPICS WEED FREE pg . 53
KYASUMA GRASS
Cenchrus pedicellatum subsp . pedicellatum
DESCRIPTION
Kyasuma grass is a highly invasive form of annual mission grass , growing as an erect tussock grass 1.5 to 2 metres tall .
Leaves leaf blades up to 45 centimetres long with a ring of short hairs at the base of the leaf blade .
Flowers are soft and fluffy ‘ fox tail ’ in appearance , 5 to 15 cm long , cream coloured or with a strong pink / purple tinge .
Seeds spikelets have numerous soft bristles to 2.5 cm long , particularly on the lower half .
Habitat grasslands and open woodland in the dry tropics .
Weed characteristics this grass is quick growing , unpalatable to livestock and outcompetes native species . It can invade into native and improved grassland areas , displacing desirable plants , reducing carrying capacity for stock and significantly altering fuel loads and fire regimes .
Dispersal seeds are easily dispersed by wind , water , animals and humans .
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
The grass must be prevented from setting seed . Small infestations can be removed by hand but larger infestations should be foliar sprayed before they set seed .
GRASSES KYASUMA GRASS