Uniola paniculata
Family: Poaceae
Description: Stout perennial, culms to 2 m tall. Flat, oval, scaly, brownish spikelets are crowded into a curving cluster on a tall, smooth stem. Grows from long, thick rhizomes. Ligules a dense ring of hairs 1-3 mm long. Narrow blade to 80 cm long and 1 cm wide.
Location: Found on beaches, sand flats, and sand dunes of the Gulf Coast.
Soil Type: Barrier island and coastal sands.
Trivia: Most recognizable grass of beach goers in the state. Seeds resemble seeds of oats. Sea oats is the most important plant in forming barrier island dunes and in their long-term stabilization. Salt, wind, and drought tolerant.
Bloom Period: June – August
Economic, Environmental Importance: Sand dune stabilization; floral arrangements (often over-collected for that purpose). Poor forage but some wildlife use.
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