Wavyleaf Basketgrass

Wavyleaf basketgrass is a relatively new invasive impacting Maryland that has the potential to be more destructive than even Japanese stilt grass. Wavyleaf basketgrass was first identified in 1996, growing along the Patapsco River in Howard County. To date, it has been found in Howard, Montgomery, Prince Georges, Anne Arundel, Carroll, and Baltimore Counties. Wavyleaf basketgrass looks a lot like stilt grass, except that the leaves have a wavy appearance to them. What makes this invasive so troublesome is its rapid spread throughout the forest, as well as its ability to out-compete native herbaceous plants, even to the point that it can exclude native trees and shrubs in overrun areas. Wavyleaf basketgrass spreads vegetatively from a long stolon, and it has a sticky seed that can adhere to fur and clothing. The seed develops and remains on the plant from August until November. This invasive is found growing in many regional parks, leading to the speculation that it is being spread by visitors that unknowingly transport the seed on their shoes or clothing. Wavy leaf basket grass is native to Japan, China, Korea, and Australia. Control is difficult due to the long perennial lifecycle and considerable mobility of the seeds. Since its introduction, resource managers have been trying to find out where wavyleaf basketgrass is located, and eliminate it. So far, not too many new infestations have been identified, leading some to hope that the threat can be eliminated. Various groups are targeting known infestations and working to eradicate the plant. People are being asked to avoid walking through infested areas during August to November, and being on the lookout for new infestations.