Invasive Wavyleaf Basketgrass taking over forest ecosystem.
NPS photo
Wavyleaf Basketgrass (Oplismenus undulatifolius) is a species of perennial grass that is native to Southern Europe through Southern Asia.
Annual Growth Rate: 8-12 in. tall Location:
Forest
Forest edges
Shaded to semi-shaded areas along trails
Impact:
Aggressive growth diminishes native biodiversity.
Suppresses regeneration of native tree species.
Seeds may remain dormant for up to five years.
Management:
Park biologists are monitoring existing locations and are addressing new growth areas as they are detected. The most effective method for managing growth and spread of the Wavyleaf is twofold: pulling the shallow-rooted plants out by hand for smaller infestations and herbicides are necessary for larger infestations.
What Can You Do?
As a devoted visitor to Gettysburg National Military Park, you can see the direct impact the Wavyleaf Basketgrass is having on your park. During the warm weather months, we host a series of Volunteer Work Days. Sign up for one or all of these to lend a hand! You have the opportunity to aid our staff to combat this invading species and perhaps slow or halt their march across our fields, our hills, our stone walls, our fences, or even around our monuments.
Report sighting of the plant.
For small infestations, pulling the plants out by hand is ideal.
