Hawaii residents are urged to use the Pest Hotline to promptly report sightings of invasive pests such as snakes, unusually aggressive stinging ants, and illegal or unknown animals. Call 643-PEST (643-7378)
Bush beardgrass/ little bluestem (Schizachyrium condensatum)
(Poaceae)
Description:
Tall grass to 2 m (6 ft) that grows in dense clumps
Produces large, broom-like tufted seed heads
Native to tropical and subtropical America, introduction history unknown.
Harm:
Thick growth displaces native plants
Grows along roadsides, in disturbed areas and in open sites in shrub land and grassland
Each plant produces millions of seeds that are spread by the wind, animals, vehicles and people
Dry grass promotes fires and quickly re-grows after wildfires
Drought tolerant, yet is able to flourish in wetter areas
In Hawaii:
Oahu: Recently discovered in relatively low densities at several road-cuts on the town-side of the H-3 freeway, and in Temple Valley, Kahaluu. OISC is working with private landowners to eradicate these known populations.
Maui: Supposedly just found near Haleakala National Park.
Molokai: None known.
Lanai: Presence/absence unknown
Kahoolawe: None known.
Kauai, Big Island: Large populations beyond eradication.
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