Family: Poaceae

Origin, Description & Uses:
Lagurus ovatus, commonly known as bunny tail grass, is a small annual ornamental grass native to regions spanning Macaronesia, the Mediterranean, and the Arabian Peninsula. It is widely valued for its soft, fluffy, oval-shaped flower heads that resemble rabbit tails, making it a popular choice for decorative gardens, borders, and dried floral arrangements. This species thrives in sunny, well-drained environments and is often used in xeriscaping due to its tolerance of dry conditions. Its compact size and distinctive texture make it appealing for both landscape use and cut flower production.

Risks & Threats:
Although Lagurus ovatus is not currently known to be naturalized in the Hawaiian Islands, it possesses traits that raise concern for tropical island ecosystems. As a fast-growing annual that produces abundant seeds, it has the potential to spread beyond cultivation, particularly in dry, open habitats. Species with similar characteristics have demonstrated the ability to establish and outcompete native vegetation, alter soil conditions, and contribute to increased fire risk. These impacts can be especially harmful in fragile island ecosystems like Hawai‘i’s. For these reasons, it is recommended to avoid planting this species and instead choose low-risk or native alternatives better suited to supporting local biodiversity.

High Risk Traits:

• Naturalized beyond native range
  
• Environmental weed
  
• Unpalatable to grazing animals
  
• Host for pests and pathogens
  
• Creates fire hazard
  
• Forms dense thickets
  
• Produces viable seed
  
• Annual (fast life cycle)
  
• Seeds dispersed intentionally by people (ornamental)
  
• Seeds dispersed as produce contaminant
  
• Wind-dispersed
  
• Persistent seed bank (>1 year)

Low Risk Traits:

• Not climatically versatile
  
• No spines, thorns, or burrs
  
• Not toxic to animals or humans
  
• Not shade tolerant
  
• Narrow soil tolerance (prefers sandy, well-drained)
  
• No vegetative fragmentation
  
• Not bird-dispersed
  
• No external animal dispersal
  
• Not a prolific seed producer
  
• Controlled by herbicides