Paspalum dilatatum Poir. (Dallis Grass) - Fact Sheet

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Dallis grass is an invasive turf grass that is problematic in golf courses, sports fields and lawns. This weed negatively affects the appearance, texture, and playability of these surfaces. Herbicide application is required to control this pest, as mowing and digging it out of the soil do not successfully manage the weed.

Where it’s found

Dallis grass has not been found in Canada. Native to South America, dallis grass is currently established in tropical and southern Africa, Asia, Australia, southern Europe, New Zealand, and across the southern United States. Plants can be found in wet areas, including seashores, swamps, lawns, roadsides, pastures, and irrigation ditches. It can also be found on professionally managed turf grass and lawns.

What it looks like

Dallis grass is a perennial grass. Plants grow as coarse clumps; its stems and leaves grow upright to over 1 m tall. Leaves are smooth with a prominent mid-vein. Small hairs may be present at the base of the blade. Seed heads have 3–5 spikes branching from the centre.

How it spreads

Dallis grass plants produce many seeds that are spread by water, lawn mowers, humans and pets. The plant is commonly spread to new areas through contaminated turf grass seed. Once established, its seeds are naturally dispersed.

What you can do about it

Maintain healthy and diverse pastures.
Use clean, high-quality seed that is certified if possible.
Ensure machinery, vehicles and tools are free of soil and plant parts before moving them from one area to another.
Contact your local Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) office if you suspect you have found this invasive plant. The CFIA will follow up and determine if further action is needed.

To find out more, visit www.inspection.gc.ca/invasive or call 1-800-442-2342.

Dallis grass invasion on turf
Attribution: John D. Byrd, Mississippi State University (Bugwood.org)