Common Name
Common pampas grass, Pink pampas grass, Silver pampas grass, Uruguayan pampas grass
Scientific Name
Cortaderia selloana, Cortaderia jubata
Family
Poaceae
Lifecycle
Perennial
Seasons of Growth
Pampas Grass typically germinates in spring, with flowering occurring from summer to autumn. Seed heads can produce up to 100,000 seeds per plume, which are dispersed by wind, water, animals, and human activities.
Key Distinguishing Feature
Leaves: Long (up to 2 meters), narrow, and sharp-edged, with finely serrated margins. Flowers: Large, plume-like heads that can be white, pink, or mauve, often up to 1 meter long. Growth Habit: Forms large, dense tussocks, with tall flowering stems that can reach up to 6 meters.
Pampas Grass, comprising species such as Cortaderia selloana and Cortaderia jubata, is a large, long-lived perennial grass native to South America. It forms dense tussocks up to 1.5 meters wide and can grow up to 6 meters tall when in flower. The leaves are long, narrow, and sharp-edged, while the flower heads are large, feathery plumes that can be white, pink, or mauve. The plant was introduced to Australia as an ornamental and for erosion control but has since become a significant environmental weed.
Methods of Control
Physical Removal:
- Hand Removal: Effective for small plants. Ensure all crown and roots are removed to prevent regrowth. Wear protective clothing due to sharp leaves.
- Mechanical Removal: Suitable for larger plants. Remove seed heads first to prevent seed spread, then slash the plant and dig out the crown and roots.
Chemical Control:
- Glyphosate: Apply during active growth periods. Use a foliar spray to thoroughly wet all leaf surfaces. Avoid spraying during drought or frost conditions.
- Fluroxypyr: Can be used for spot spraying young, actively growing plants.
- Grazing: Sheep and Cattle: Can graze young plants to prevent seed head formation. This method is less effective on mature plants.
- Fire: Burn plants to prepare for spraying. Allow regrowth before applying herbicide.
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