Product Code Database
Panicum effusum, commonly known as hairy panic, is a grass native to inland Australia. It occurs in every mainland state, as well as New Guinea. In dry conditions, the fast-growing grass can become a tumbleweed.
include branched panic, hairy panic, effuse panic, native millet and poison panic. (1981). 9780724020034, NSW Government Printing Service. ISBN 9780724020034
Hairy panic is found on the following ecoregions in Australia: Shrubland, grass downs, tropical savanna, desert, woodlands, lowland rainforest, tropical rainforests, montane grasslands, sub-alpine grassland, mangroves, xeric scrub and temperate rainforests.
The flowering of this plant occurs during summer. It is highly drought-tolerant, but is sensitive to frost.
Under extremely dry conditions, the fast-growing grass becomes a tumbleweed (that has evolved to disperse seeds) and can become a nuisance in residential areas due to the accumulation of grass stalks. In February 2016, the town of Wangaratta, Victoria, was invaded by large numbers of tumbleweeds of the plant, which piled up to roof height in places. Some residents blamed the problem on a local farmer who had failed to upkeep his paddock.
Hairy panic uses C4 carbon fixation, giving it an advantage in conditions of drought and high temperature.
It also has some bush food value. The seeds can be ground and baked. Although there are plenty of seeds they may not be easy to collect.
Uses
Hairy panic is a component of pastures, though not usually abundant. It is of moderate nutritional value to livestock. Sheep consuming large quantities of hairy panic within 2–6 weeks of rain can suffer from photosensitivity and the fatal disease called yellow-bighead.
See also
External links
|
|
