Mexican Feather Grass may look like an attractive ornamental grass, but if it escapes from gardens it can become a serious problem for pastures, bushland and roadsides.
This highly invasive grass spreads rapidly, produces large amounts of seed and is extremely difficult to control once established. It is also unpalatable to livestock, which means grazing animals tend to leave it untouched while eating surrounding pasture.
A prohibited plant in NSW
Mexican Feather Grass is classified as Prohibited Matter in NSW and is a prevention priority.
It cannot be sold or traded in NSW, and any suspected plants or infestations must be reported immediately.
If you think you have found Mexican Feather Grass, contact the NSW Biosecurity Helpline on 1800 680 244 or Council’s Biosecurity team.
An ornamental grass that can be easy to miss
Mexican Feather Grass forms dense, flowing clumps with very fine leaves that can grow up to 60 cm long. Its leaves are tightly rolled, while its soft, feathery seed heads give the plant the delicate appearance that has made it popular as an ornamental grass elsewhere.
It can also look similar to some native grasses, making early detection difficult.
A serious threat if it escapes
Mexican Feather Grass is not currently established in NSW, which makes preventing its introduction and spread especially important.
Gardens and landscaped areas are considered a key risk because plants can produce large amounts of seed that then escape into surrounding areas. If established, the grass can invade pastures, roadsides and native vegetation.
Its ability to spread quickly, persist once established and avoid grazing pressure means it has the potential to displace productive pasture and native plants.
Seeds made to travel
The light seeds of Mexican Feather Grass can be carried by wind over considerable distances.
They can also hitch a ride on clothing, animals, vehicles and machinery, allowing the plant to spread well beyond where it was originally growing.
Garden escape is another risk, particularly where ornamental grasses are planted close to bushland, roadsides or rural areas.
Know what you are buying
Before purchasing or planting ornamental grasses, check exactly what species you are buying and be cautious of plants sold under older or alternative names. Mexican Feather Grass has previously been sold under the genus Stipa and may also have been labelled Elegant spear grass, so it is worth checking the identity of ornamental grasses already growing in gardens.
A single plant matters
As Mexican Feather Grass is not established in NSW, finding and reporting even a single plant can make a real difference in keeping it out of our region.
If you suspect a plant may be Mexican Feather Grass, do not disturb it or attempt to remove it yourself, as this may spread seed.
Instead, report the plant promptly to the the NSW Biosecurity Helpline on 1800 680 244 or Council’s Biosecurity team.
More information is available through NSW WeedWise: Mexican Feather Grass.
