It is also naturalised in Australia, New Zealand, Japan, China, and southern Africa, including Madagascar.

[1] It is a noxious weed where it has been introduced in Hawaii and New Caledonia.

[2][3] It grows well in disturbed habitat, often in moist areas.

This is a rhizomatous perennial grass which may reach 2 meters tall.

The leaves are up to 2.5 centimeters wide and have a large, noticeable ligule.