Family: Poaceae

Thysanolaena latifolia (tiger grass, broom grass) is a perennial grass native to tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, including China, India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Southeast Asian countries. It grows well in hilly areas, often on slopes and along riverbanks and is cultivated for broom making, erosion control, forage for livestock, and for ceremonial and ornamental purposes. In the Hawaiian Islands, it has become naturalized on the island of Oahu and has recently been documented as spreading along a river in Hilo, Hawaii island. With its ability to establish by wind and water-dispersed seeds and rhizomes, and to form large clumps, it may be able to compete with and exclude other desirable vegetation in agricultural and natural environments.

High Risk Traits:

• Broad climate suitability and environmental versatility
  
• Grows and spreads in regions with tropical climates
  
• Naturalized on Oahu, and Hawaii islands, and other locations worldwide
  
• Reported to be weedy in disturbed habitats and agricultural crops
  
• Host of crop pathogens
  
• Able to establish in shade
  
• Tolerates many soil types
  
• Reproduces by seeds, asexually through pseudovivipary, and possibly via spread of rhizome fragments
  
• Propagules spread by wind, water, vehicles, and mowing equipment, as well as through intentional cultivation
  
• Seeds may form a persistent seed bank (up to 4 years)
  
• Tolerates pruning, drought, and fire

Low Risk Traits:

• Unarmed (no spines, thorns, or burrs)
  
• Palatable and used as livestock fodder
  
• Reported to be non-toxic