First incident - Approximately 650,000 pounds of tall fescue seed contaminated with ST were imported from Argentina during the fall of 1988. Most of the contaminated seed was either cleaned, destroyed or exported. They have narrow leaves and a diffusely fibrous root system. Leaves are numerous, emerging from the base forming a tussock. They are tightly rolled, needle-like, and stiff with small serrations.
Leaves appear brownish- green in spring and fall, and tend to be bleached yellow in winter.
Reproduction is by seeds only, which are easily disseminated. Seeds may germinate throughout all seasons and persist in the soil for 13 years. If you find a suspect, mark the location and take a sample of the plant to your county extension or State Department of Agriculture agent. It is anticipated that Serrated Tussock will first appear in areas where contaminated seed was planted and it will be easiest to recognize in unmowed areas. H. B. Jackson - Dept.