Turfmate field notes · Weeds

Paspalum

Paspalum dilatatum

A coarse perennial clump with distinctive seed-head branches.

Paspalum seed-head branches.
Paspalum seed-head branches.
Photo: Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz · source · CC BY 4.0. Displayed at reduced size; card crops fit the layout.

What to look for

  • A persistent coarse clump with broad blades.
  • Several seed-head branches are spaced along a central stem.
  • A substantial crown can remain after mowing or a shallow pull.

Confirm it before you treat it

Paspalum, summer grass and other coarse grass weeds can look similar when regularly mown. Let one small sample show its seed head or photograph a lifted crown. Your desirable grass type must also be confirmed before a selective herbicide is considered.

What to do next

  1. Dig out isolated crowns where practical and repair the opening.
  2. Limit seed return and clean equipment when moving between infested and clean areas.
  3. Ask us for grass-specific treatment advice on larger infestations.
Seasonal watch

Conditions matter more than dates.

A perennial grass weed that becomes more conspicuous during warm active growth.

Spring-to-autumn monitoring is useful in temperate lawns. Established crowns can remain through winter and regrow.

Explore your region & month ↗

Can I use the same spray on buffalo and couch?

Do not assume so. Selective grass-weed products can have very different turf tolerances. Tell us the variety before choosing a treatment.

Keep investigating

Similar problems. Different solutions.

Reviewed 10 October 2026 · Turfmate. Seasonal windows are indicative planning guidance, not measured outbreak or prevalence data.

Technical sources & image credits
  • Lawn Solutions Australia: paspalum
  • Paspalum — Photo: Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz · source · CC BY 4.0. Displayed at reduced size; card crops fit the layout.
  • Summer grass & crabgrass — Photo: Rasbak · source · CC BY-SA 3.0. Displayed at reduced size; card crops fit the layout.
  • Winter grass — Photo: Sam Kieschnick · source · CC BY 4.0. Displayed at reduced size; card crops fit the layout.
  • Nutgrass — Photo: Rickjpelleg · source · CC BY 2.5. Displayed at reduced size; card crops fit the layout.

Photos support identification and may have been taken outside Australia. Appearance varies with species, mowing and conditions. A Turfmate product link does not imply endorsement by a photographer or source.