Kiwis urged to learn difference between Pampas and native Toetoe
Across New Zealand’s coastlines, wetlands and restoration areas, one invasive plant continues to quietly spread - smothering native ecosystems, increasing fire risk, and outcompeting indigenous species.
The problem? Many Kiwis don’t realise they’re looking at it.
According to Terence Stewart, Founder and Owner of Native Restorations, invasive Pampas Grass is commonly mistaken for native Toetoe, leading many well-meaning New Zealanders to accidentally spread a harmful pest plant, or worse, mistakenly remove native species during weed control efforts.
“Pampas and Toetoe are regularly confused because from a distance they can appear very similar,” says Stewart.
“But the environmental impact of getting it wrong can be significant. We’re seeing Pampas continue to spread through vulnerable coastal and restoration areas because many people genuinely believe it’s native.”
Native Restorations has recently been involved in removing invasive coastal pest plants including Pampas Grass, as part of ongoing restoration and revegetation projects throughout New Zealand’s fragile coastal environments.
Originally introduced as an ornamental species, Pampas Grass (Cortaderia selloana and Cortaderia jubata) is now considered a serious environmental weed in many parts of the country due to its aggressive growth and prolific seeding habits.
Once established, Pampas can:
- outcompete native plants for light, water, and nutrients;
- create dense fire hazards;
- suppress biodiversity; and
- make restoration work significantly more difficult.
“Pampas spreads incredibly easily, especially in disturbed coastal environments,” says Stewart.
“One of the biggest issues is that people still collect and plant it because they like the fluffy plumes or believe it’s part of the natural New Zealand landscape. Unfortunately, that unknowingly contributes to the spread of an invasive species.”
In contrast, native Toetoe (Austroderia species) plays an important ecological role in New Zealand ecosystems and is frequently used in restoration planting programmes for erosion control, habitat support, and stabilising vulnerable landscapes.
According to Stewart, education is one of the most important tools New Zealanders have in helping protect native environments.
“We don’t want people accidentally spraying or removing native Toetoe thinking it’s Pampas, because Toetoe is hugely valuable for our ecosystems,” he explains.
“At the same time, we also need people to recognise when Pampas is present so it can be managed before it spreads further.”
Fortunately, there are several simple ways everyday Kiwis can begin identifying the difference.
Stewart says correct identification is becoming increasingly important as New Zealand faces growing pressure from invasive weeds, erosion, habitat fragmentation, and climate impacts.
“Restoration doesn’t just happen through large-scale projects,” he says.
“Everyday landowners, gardeners, and communities play a huge role in protecting native biodiversity. Simply knowing the difference between
Pampas and Toetoe can genuinely help prevent further spread and protect our native landscapes for future generations.”
For landowners unsure whether they have Pampas or Toetoe on their property, Native Restorations recommends seeking professional advice before removal or spraying.
How to spot the difference between Pampas and Toetoe
The Leaf Test
Pampas leaves are extremely sharp and harsh, often cutting skin easily. Native Toetoe leaves are generally softer and less aggressive to touch.
“A simple field trick many restoration teams use is called the ‘rip test’,” says Stewart.
“Toetoe leaves will usually tear lengthwise more easily, while Pampas tends to resist ripping because the leaves are tougher and more rigid.”
Look At the Flower Plumes
Pampas produces dense, upright fluffy plumes, while Toetoe has softer, more drooping flowers that move naturally in the wind.
There’s also a well-known saying many restoration workers use: “Toetoe flowers before Christmas, Pampas after Christmas.”
Native Toetoe typically flowers in spring and early summer, while Pampas usually flowers later into summer and autumn.
Check the Stem
Another key giveaway is the flower stem itself.
“Toetoe stems often have a fluffy or hairy appearance, whereas Pampas stems are generally smooth,” says Stewart.
Look At The Base Of The Plant
Pampas typically forms thick, messy clumps with tangled dead material around the base. Toetoe usually has a more graceful structure, with older leaves hanging downward more neatly.