Origin:
Native to Europe, and now spread widely across the U.S. , south through Latin America, and in Asia and Australia.
Biology:
Usually a winter annual, but it may persist as a perennial in cooler climates. Propagation is from seeds. Plants may be found in most habitats, including turf, roadsides, or any disturbed site.
Identification:
Numerous upright stems are produced from the base of the plant, creating a large tufted appearance. Mature plants may be as tall as 2 feet, with the upper two thirds being the elongated stems with the seed heads. Leaf blades are very long and very thin, with a membranous ligule at their base. Seed heads form an elongate spike with large, awned spikelets along it. Flowers form in early to late spring, and produce a strong, sweet odor when crushed. The tiny flowers produced by the spikelets are red to purple.
Characteristicts Important to Control:
Post-emergent control may be required due to the ability of the weed to persist from year to year.
