Weeds in Australia

Publications and resources

Lobed needle grass (Nassella charruana) weed management guide

Alert List for Environmental Weeds
Department of the Environment and Heritage and the CRC for Australian Weed Management, 2003
ISBN 1 9209 3227 5

PDF file

About the guide

Lobed needle grass is on the Alert List for Environmental Weeds, a list of 28 non-native plants that threaten biodiversity and cause other environmental damage. Although only in the early stages of establishment, these weeds have the potential to seriously degrade Australia's ecosystems.

Even in its native Argentina, where the relatively unpalatable serrated tussock and Chilean needle grass are used as fodder, lobed needle grass is regarded as a serious weed due to its invasiveness and competitiveness. It is drought tolerant and forms dense infestations. While cattle may be able to tolerate lobed needle grass, it is a major problem for sheep because the sharp seeds can damage skins and carcasses and contaminate fleeces.

Lobed needle grass is closely related to serrated tussock (Nassella trichotoma), a Weed of National Significance which costs southeastern Australia's grazing industries more than $40 million a year in control expenditure and lost production.

Cover of Lobed needle grass (Nassella charruana) - Alert List for Environmental Weeds - Weed Management Guide

Before you download

Most publications are downloadable as PDF files. Adobe Acrobat Reader  is required to view PDF files.

If you are unable to access a publication, please contact us to organise a suitable alternative format.

Key

   Links to an another web site
   Opens a pop-up window