Lagurus ovatus
POEAE
Hare's tail grass
Originated in the Mediterranean, thought to have been an introduced escapee ornamental garden plant now a widespread weed, common on sandy soils disrupting native species & leading to an increased fire risk.
A clump forming grass, growing to 50cm with soft hairy leaf blades. Germinating in June & July.
The characteristic seedhead is white, soft, dense, egg shaped, 1 to 6cm x 1 to 2 cm in Spring through Summer. Prolific seed producer which is dispersed by water, wind, animals & machinery.
Effective management is dependent on the prevention of seed set. Hand removal of small isolated infestations & herbicide application of larger infestations in Sept & October is most effective.
Lagurus is similar to native Hedgehog Grass (Echinopogon spp) which have a similar seedhead but are a greenish coloured , less dense feathery on its spikelets.