Chilean Needle Grass

Chilean needle grass,named for its sharp pointed seed,is regarded as one of the worst weeds in Australia. Chilean needle grass is a perennial tussock grass which grows in dense clumps up to 1m in height. It is highly drought resistant, relatively un‐ palatable, can cause injury to livestock, contaminates wool and reduces biodiversity by outcompeting native species.

 As the name suggests, Chilean needle grass is native to South America. It has been known to exist in Australia since the 1930’s but due to its relatively slow spread has only recently been recognised as a serious weed. The issue lies in how difficult it is to control. Chilean needle grass can produce more than 20,000 seeds per square metre. The seed bank can persist for many years even when further seeding is prevented. An unusual feature is that in addition to its distinctive purplish seed head, it produces hidden seeds which form at nodes along the stem and at the base of the plant.

 Once established, Chilean needle grass is difficult to manage. The best outcome is early identification and physical removal before the plant can get established. Once a high level infestation is established a combination of control approaches will need to be used over a number of seasons including herbicides and grazing management.

 Preventing the spread of seed is the key to preventing further spread of Chilean needle grass. In known infestations we ask that great care is taken when moving stock or machinery to other areas.

For help with weed identification and management please contact us on 67703602, call into our office at 129 St Armidale or visit us at www.newa.com.au