Origin:
Native to South America, but introduced as a forage plant, and now spread throughout the southern half of the U.S. from Virginia to California.
Biology:
A tall perennial grass which forms thick clumps up to 6 feet tall. Propagation is by seeds, and plants may occur in most habitats, but prefer moist to wet soils.
Identification:
Mature plants have erect, thick stems, although as the seed heads mature their weight may cause the stems to bend at an angle. Leaves are very long and drooping, and may be over a half inch wide. Leaves are smooth but with a fringe of hairs at their base. The ligule is membranous and long. Seed heads can be very long, with up to 30 long spikelets off the main stem, and these give a very hairy, soft appearance as they mature.
Characteristicts Important to Control:
Individual clumps can be removed by hand, and use of a pre-emergent herbicide may reduce growth from seeds. Not generally a problem in turf that is maintained.
