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dillybeansown

Identify MO grass with beautiful inflorescence

Trying to figure out what grass this is. The seed heads really caught my eye, as they are very graceful with their dangling form, and many of them have a pinkish/reddish tinge. They are blooming right now, in June, along the road sides in very sandy soil. They seem to form very small clumps, and do not have basal leaves. There are just a few leaves along the stems, but those have mostly died now that the plant is going to seed. The closest match I could find is some kind of oats, but that didn’t quite seem to fit. Any ideas?


I’m aorry the pictures are loading sideways. Houzz is being all weird.








Comments (3)

  • Dillybeansown (6b in the Ozarks)
    Original Author
    9 months ago


    Up close of a seed group.


    I've thought perhaps it could be a stipa or nassela, like the chilean needle grass which it does seem to resemble, but the photos up close that I’ve seen do not have the multiple seeds together grouped like something in the grain family.


    The ”needles” on this grass are not stiff, and bend or break long before penetrating skin. They are slightly ”sticky” like Velcro, but definitely not dangerous.

  • HighDesert Z 7a
    9 months ago

    I’m no expert, and others will pop on and correct me if needed, but that looks like cheat grass.

    if it is, get rid of it immediately. Highly invasive and as bad as foxtails for pets when dry.

    Dillybeansown (6b in the Ozarks) thanked HighDesert Z 7a
  • Dillybeansown (6b in the Ozarks)
    Original Author
    9 months ago

    Thank you. I really appreciate the response. yes, after looking it up, that appears to be exactly correct. Bummer. It is very pretty. lol.


    Thabks again