Chilean needle grass (Nassella neesiana) weed management guide
Weeds of National Significance
Department of the Environment and Heritage and the CRC for Australian Weed Management, 2003
ISBN 1 9209 3205 4
PDF file
About the guide
Chilean needle grass is a Weed of National Significance. It is regarded as one of the worst weeds in Australia because of its invasiveness, potential for spread, and economic and environmental impacts. It is closely related to another Weed of National Significance, serrated tussock (Nassella trichotoma).
Chilean needle grass affects both sown pasture and native grasslands of southeastern Australia. It is relatively unpalatable and reduces farm productivity by displacing more desirable pasture species. Heavy infestations can decrease productivity by as much as 50% during summer. It also causes injury to stock and downgrades wool, skins and hides with its long, sharp seeds.
As an environmental weed it reduces biodiversity in native grasslands, where it outcompetes indigenous species. A survey of landholders in Victoria, New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory estimated the average annual cost of controlling Chilean needle grass was between $60 and $120 per ha, depending on whether the infestation was scattered or dense.
Contact details
Matt Sheehan
National Coordinator Chilean Needle Grass
Victorian Department of Primary Industries
PO Box 3100, Bendigo Delivery Centre, VIC 3554
Cnr Fenwick and Little Malop Streets, Geelong, Victoria 3220
Phone: (03) 5430 4384 Fax: (03) 5448 4982 Mobile: 0458 915 721
matthew.sheehan@dpi.vic.gov.au
| Extent in Australia | Potential distribution |
|---|---|
| NSW, VIC, SA, ACT | Could further expand in current locations; plus WA, QLD, TAS |
See also
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