RANGE GRASSES OF HAWAII 



51 



No. 49. TRICHOLAENA ROSEA (6, p. 206) 

 Common names: Natal grass, Natal redtop 



Natal grass, a native of Africa (6, p. 20/ h 205), was reported in 

 Hawaii as early as 1894, and is now scattered over all the islands. It 

 is an erect perennial attaining a height of 3 feet or more, and spreads 



Figure 49. — Tricholaena rosea 



by means of underground stems and by seeds. In Hawaii it is valu- 

 able for the dry lands. It will likewise grow on stony land in dry 

 places where few other grasses survive. Natal grass withstands pas- 

 turing if it is allowed to rest and reseed itself at intervals. It is said 

 to recover quickly after drought. The grass is tender and palatable 

 when young but wiry and tough when oid. Because of its abundant 

 seeding it is regarded as a pest on sugar plantations. It can be propa- 

 gated easily by scattering the dried mature grass containing the seed. 



