African Lovegrass spreads fast, seeds faster, and survives almost anywhere. Learn to spot it early, manage it well, and help protect East Gippsland's pastures and native grasslands, together.
Native to southern Africa, African Lovegrass (ALG) tolerates low, erratic rainfall and drought. It first takes hold on disturbed, low-fertility, acidic and sandy soils, then spreads to all land types, forming dense tussocks that smother desirable species.
Its forage value drops sharply with maturity, and it responds to rain far faster than temperate pastures, greening up after summer storms while everything around it has hayed off.
Unpalatable to stock once mature, it out-competes feed species and drops the carrying capacity of grazing country.
A serious threat to the critically endangered Gippsland Red Gum Grassy Woodlands and associated native grasslands.
There is evidence that ALG-infested properties are being downgraded in value, a cost that grows the longer it's left.
Carried on machinery, stock, fodder and soil. It colonises roadsides then blows onto adjoining farmland on prevailing winds.
A short field guide to the five features that give ALG away, so you can spot young plants before they seed.
ALG likely arrived in Gippsland decades ago on droving stock, roadside works and contaminated fodder. Since then it has found a foothold in many parts of the region, thriving through harsh dry seasons and exploding in wet, humid summers.
The main spread vector is roadside management: seed travelling long distances on machinery and vehicles, then encroaching onto neighbouring farmland. Prevention, hygiene and a coordinated community effort are the only realistic way forward.
See the community sightings map →Key features, the growth calendar, and spotting young plants early.
Read more →Integrated weed management: hygiene, physical, cultural & chemical.
Read more →Flupropanate vs glyphosate, registered chemicals & spray calibration.
Read more →Landcare, Tom's Creek, working bees and the monthly newsletter.
Read more →Download the fact sheets, ute guide and full Best Practice Manual.
Read more →Log an infestation and see reports across the region, with no personal details needed.
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