Key grass, Shoregrass, Salt-flat Grass

Monanthochloe littoralis

Family: Poaceae

Description: Mat-forming perennial with long, wiry solons and rhizomes. Forms extensive colonies. Plants dioecious. Inflorescence composed of a single spikelet enclosed in upper leaf sheaths. Mats to 15 cm tall; usually dense.

Location: Found in moist, sandy, saline soils along the Gulf Coast. It is a halophyte.

Soil Type: Saline

Trivia: Report to have the shortest leaves of any grass. Often found in association with blue-green algae mats, saltwort, and glasswort.

Economic, Environmental Importance: Poor livestock and wildlife values. Important for its ability to aid in the stabilization of marsh areas and low tidal Flats. Blooms during warm seasons.