General information

Mexican feather grass, Nassella tenuissima, has been mislabelled and sold in 2008 through Queensland nursery and landscape outlets as Stipa capriccio. Landscapers have planted the grass in gardens or other areas as part of landscaping projects.

Mexican feather grass is a low-protein, high-fibre grass that has no grazing value. Pure stands of Mexican feather grass would render a paddock worthless.

It is closely related to several other exotic grasses, including serrated tussock (N. trichotoma) and Chilean needle grass (N. neesiana), both of which are Weeds of National Significance. Serrated tussock costs New South Wales' agriculture more than $40 million annually and is causing severe environmental damage to native grasslands. Mexican feather grass is similar to serrated tussock, in terms of ecology and growth.

Mexican feather grass is a Class 1 declared pest plant in Queensland. Class 1 pests established in Queensland are subject to eradication from the state. Landowners must take reasonable steps to keep land free of Class 1 pests. It is a serious offence to introduce, keep or supply a Class 1 pest without a permit issued by Biosecurity Queensland. Penalties of up to $80,000 apply.

Mexican Feather Grass is subject to eradication from the state

Biosecurity Queensland is implementing an emergency eradication response to trace and retrieve plants with the objective of eradication. See 'Current eradication activities' (link below) for more information on what we are doing and how you can become involved.

Overview