Public perceptions about the invasive plant pampas grass, Cortaderia selloana

Abstract

Cortaderia selloana, also known as pampas grass, is native to the Pampas region in South America. Nowadays, it is a widespread invasive plant in several regions of the World, including the south of the Atlantic Arc in Europe, where it has been used as an ornamental species. As such, citizens may play an important role in the dissemination of this invasive species, but on the other hand, if they are aware of its invasive behavior, can contribute to its control and prevent spread. An online survey was performed to better understand the perception and knowledge of Portuguese and Spanish citizens about pampas grass. 486 and 839 citizens answered the questionnaire in Portugal (PT) and Spain (ES), respectively. In general, most respondents were between 41 and 64 years old, mostly women in Portugal and equally women and men in Spain, with higher education and working mostly in the services sector. The majority of respondents in both countries recognized the plant, know it is invasive and many were able to name it, but fewer were aware of the legislation that limits its use, and most were not able to identify particular characteristics of the species. Respondents' occupation in PT and education in ES seem to influence their knowledge and perception about pampas grass. Our results confirm that education and raising awareness of citizens regarding invasive species is of the utmost importance so that citizens can be part of the solution and not the problem, especially when regarding ornamental species like pampas grass.