By Roelof Bezuidenhout
Fountain grass (Pennisetum setaceum, or pronkgras in Afrikaans) can easily mislead farmers into thinking it is related to foxtail buffalo grass (Cenchrus ciliaris, or bloubuffelgras in Afrikaans), a valuable grazing plant. As a result, some farmers mistakenly introduce this broad-leaved invasive species, believing it will improve their veld – but in reality it degrades it.
Fountain grass, which is native to North Africa and the Middle East, is a declared weed in South Africa. Unlike foxtail buffalo grass, it is unpalatable to livestock due to the fine serrations along its leaves. It has spread alarmingly from gardens, where its long pink plumes have made it a popular ornamental plant.
Exotic garden plants, especially cacti from the Americas, have become a serious problem on many farms across the country. Fortunately, biological control agents imported from their native ranges have proven effective against some of the species. A prime example is the prickly pear (now known as cactus pear), which has been largely brought under control by the cochineal insect, its natural predator in Mexico.
Invasive alien trees such as black wattle also pose a major threat. They choke springs and rivers, and absorb enough water each year to fill vast reservoirs.
Fountain grass was first observed along roadsides near towns, but it has since spread to watercourses, even in the Karoo, and to places such as Table Mountain and even Hawaii. Its initial spread a few kilometres outside urban areas is often due to vehicles picking up seeds in their wheels and depositing them along the way. From there, the plant spreads rapidly.
According to Clive Bromilow’s book Problem Plants and Alien Weeds of South Africa, fountain grass is now found across much of the eastern half of the country, as well as in the south-western Cape. “The grass has a strong pioneering nature and the ability to replace indigenous vegetation,” he writes. “It can be sprayed in the veld with the same herbicides used on roadsides.”
Foxtail buffalo grass is hardy and drought resistant, and makes excellent hay, but it is difficult to establish from seed – unlike fountain grass, which spreads easily. Sheep prefer foxtail buffalo grass once it has been grazed down by cattle.
 | Roelof Bezuidenhout is a fourth-generation wool, mohair, mutton and game farmer and freelance journalist. Attended Free State University, majoring in animal husbandry and pasture science. Other interests include agricultural extension and rural development. |
