Ecological Risk Screening Summary - Torpedo Grass (Panicum repens) - High Risk

Species that are considered high risk have a well-documented history of invasiveness in at least one location globally and are of establishment concern for the contiguous United States based on a climate matching analysis.

Panicum repens, Torpedo grass, is a plant that is native to Africa, Asia, and Europe. Torpedo grass is a blade-like grass that grows in tropical and subtropical regions. It has been introduced intentionally and unintentionally in multiple countries with established populations in North and South America as well as elsewhere. There are recorded negative impacts on native vegetation, hydrology, water quality, recreation, agriculture, and possibly livestock. The History of Invasiveness for  Panicum repens is classified as High. The climate matching analysis for the contiguous United States indicates establishment concern for this species. Areas of high match were mainly found in the southeastern United States. The Certainty of Assessment for this ERSS is classified as High due to having abundant information regarding Panicum repens including reliable sources showing negative impacts. The Overall Risk Assessment Category for Panicum repens in the contiguous United States is High.