An invasive plant known as Mexican Feather Grass has been spotted in the Taihape area and the call has gone out for community action to weed it out. 

Masquerading as a fine-stemmed ornamental grass,  Nassella Tenuissima crowds out other, desirable pasture species and has the ability to thrive in poor to dry pastures, as well as open or coastal areas.

Horizons’ Taihape-based environmental management officer for plants, Malinda Matthewson, said the weed was originally planted by unsuspecting gardeners who probably thought it to be an attractive garden plant.

Ally Koehler Communications Advisor for Horizons told Country99TV the Mexican Feather weed has been sighted around the Taihape area.

“We want to do all we can do to control it and that’s why we are urging members of the public to get in touch with Horizons. At this stage it is something Horizons needs to be controlling.”

Ms. Koehler said Horizons don’t want people pulling it out themselves, and to contact Horizons to deal with the weed.

The weed is also affecting sheep and cattle causing indigestion and weight loss.

She says it is essential that farmers, land managers and gardeners keep an eye out for the pest plant and contact Horizons Regional Council if sighted.