Austrostipa rudis
Needle grass
Family: Poaceae
Origin: Australia
Regional Pest Management Plan (RPMP) status
- Whole region — Progressive containment, council delivered
- Hauraki Gulf Controlled Area Notice pest
General description
Erect, wiry, perennial tussock < 1.3 m tall. Shoots are slightly swollen at the base. Leaves are < 30 cm long, with green tops and silver undersides. Seed heads are large, drooping and purplish.
What you need to know
To help protect our environment:
- You must not breed, distribute, release or sell needle grass within the Auckland region.
- You must not plant needle grass within the Auckland region.
Auckland Council will manage needle grass at all sites where it is known to occur.
If you see needle grass anywhere in the Auckland region, please report it to Auckland Council at pestfree@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz.
Habitats
Coastal areas, open woodlands, forest margins, grasslands.
Dispersal
Seeds dispersed by water, attachment to livestock and contamination of hay and machinery.
Impact on environment
Displaces native coastal plants and desirable pasture species.
Control
Recommended approaches
Do not attempt to undertake control of this species. Please report to Auckland Council.
Caution: When using any herbicide or pesticide please read the label thoroughly to ensure that all instructions and safety requirements are followed.
