Rattail smutgrass

Sporobolus indicus

Poaceae


Description

The slender, erect stems have seedheads that look like rattails. The seed head is sometimes partly included in the sheath. The panicle is often infested with a black fungus, hence the name. The seed are reddish.

Rattail smutgrass is a perennial, warm-season, introduced - 18 to 42 inches tall.

Poor grazing for both livestock and wildlife.


Habitat

Grows in pastures, meadows, waste places and under trees. It is probably distributed by birds. Can be an invasive grass. The leaves toughen with age and become hard to mow. Native to tropical Asia.


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