Bothriochloa ischaemum songarica
Family: Poaceae
Description: Typically tufted but becoming stoloniferous and/or rhizomatous upon frequent mowing or grazing. This subspecies has pubescent nodes. Cespitose perennial with erect or decumbent spreading culms and flat blades. Inflorescence a terminal panicle, the spikelets on few to several spicate primary branches. Sessile spikelets f a pair fertile and awned, triangular in outline, the lower glume dorsally flattened, the upper glume with a median keel. Pedicelled spikelet falling attached to a pedicle and section of the rachis. Lower glumes of sessile spikelets not pitted.
Location: Found in seeded pastures, along roadsides, and other disturbed sites. Occurs mostly in central S. Texas south to Mexico
Soil Type: It is a perennial, warm season bunchgrass that grows in tufts with erect or spreading stems 46–122 cm (18-48 inches) tall. Maroon-colored flowers can be readily seen in the fall in plantings on highway medians. Stems turn a straw color when mature. Its roots can grow more than 2.7 meters (9 feet) deep, even throughcaliche. This plant will grow in tiny cracks of concrete and asphalt
Trivia: However, it can become invasive and may impact native ecosystems. It is an invasive weed in Texas, where it is known as “King Ranch bluestem”; it has displaced native grasses in large areas of central and south Texas. The Species name come from the Ancient Greek ischaemum, a styptics (causing ischemia).
Importance: Invasive-from Europe and Asia commonly used for forage in pastures, soil conservation, and as ornamental grass. Its popularity is due to its drought tolerance and ability to thrive on poor-quality soils.Description:
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