Family: Poaceae Scientific name: Cenchrus ciliaris Description: Plant Form Tufted grass. Size 30 cm to 1.5 m tall. Stem Erect, slender. Leaves Bluish green blades 1 cm wide, hairy, flat or folded with pointed tops. Flowers One to four spikelets, purple. Fruit and Seeds Heads are dense and cylindrical with clusters of white bristles making them look fluffy. Habitat Roadsides, rail lines, rangelands, pastures. Distinguishing Features Very similar to other Cenchrus species. Dense tussocks and fluffy heads may help distinguish it. Impacts Increases fire risk, inhibits native species, reduces biodiversity, affects Indigenous land use.