Aleman grass

• Aquatic or semi-aquatic perennial grass 1–2.5m tall.
• Leaves are 20–60cm long, 1–1.5cm wide, flat and smooth on surface, rough on edges, tapering towards apex.
• Flower heads are 15–25cm long.

• Forms extensive patches in seasonal swamps along streambanks and other seasonally flooded areas.
• Can grow in water that is more than 2m deep.

• Naturalised in small areas of Northern and Central Queensland.

• Major growth happens in summer.
• Seed heads appear throughout year.

Environmental

• Forms pure stands in native range, suggesting it out-competes other plants.
• Has potential to invade large areas of wetlands and areas with high average rainfall in Northern Australia.

Economic

• Known weed of rice crops and crayfish production overseas.

• Stems and roots are spread by floodwaters.
• Also spread by vehicles and animals.

• Find out how farmers can prevent weed spread.
• Find out how gardeners and outdoor enthusiasts can prevent weed spread.

Physical control

• Dig out small areas of young plants with mattock or similar tool when site is not waterlogged.

Mechanical control

• Treat mature plants and larger infestations with appropriate herbicide.

Herbicide control

• Treat mature plants and larger infestations with appropriate herbicide.

See the Aleman grass fact sheet (PDF, 916KB) for herbicide control and application rates.

• Aleman grass is not a prohibited or restricted invasive plant under the Biosecurity Act 2014. However, by law, everyone has a general biosecurity obligation (GBO) to take reasonable and practical steps to minimise the risks associated with invasive plants under their control.
• Local councils must have a biosecurity plan that covers invasive plants in their area. This plan may include actions to be taken on Aleman grass. Some of these actions may be required under local laws. Contact your local council for more information.