Pennisetum clandestinum (grass)

Ecology Distribution Management Info Impact Info References and Links Contacts

General Impact Under certain conditions P. clandestinum can accumulate high levels of soluble oxalates and nitrates that are toxic when eaten by livestock (CDFA, 2003). Can invade areas of turf, such as golf courses and lawns (Haubensak & Smyth, 1999). Forms mats, which inhibit regeneration by smothering seedlings. Also produces allelopathic chemicals that kill other plant species in its vicinity (Sanchez & Davis, 1969 in PIER, 2003). Invades agricultural areas and roadsides, and is able to climb over and smother shrubs and young trees (South Coast Weeds, 2003). In Peru, P. clandestinum has invaded ancient Inca ruins, causing destruction through its roots growing in crevices and cracking the stones (Environment and Conservation, 1999).          Location Specific Impacts: Australia   Agricultural: A weed of pastures, cereals, citrus, sugarcane and vineyards. Colombia   Agricultural: A weed of potatoes, wheat, corn, fruit crops, barley and irrigated crops. Costa Rica   Agricultural: A weed of row crops and tea. Ecuador   Agricultural: A weed of pastures. Gibraltar   Competition: Pennisetum clandestinum is an aggressive species forming dense mats, smothering and excluding indigenous flora. India   Agricultural: A principal weed of tea. Kenya   Agricultural: A principal weed of pyrethrum and a weed of pastures, forests, tea and sisal. Machu Picchu (Peru)   Other: Pennisetum clandestinum has caused damage to ancient Inca ruins, as its roots grow into crevices and crack the stones. Sri Lanka   Agricultural: A weed of tea. Taiwan   Agricultural: A weed of pastures. Tanzania, United Republic of   Agricultural: A principal weed of sisal, and pyrethrum. Uganda   Agricultural: A weed of tea. California (United States (USA))   Agricultural: A weed of irrigated crops. Hawaii (United States (USA))   Agricultural: A weed of vegetables, papayas and bananas.