Now that we have covered the basics of how a grass plant looks and the different structures, veld types and ecological groups we can start to practically identify the grass plants. The following thirty species have been selected as the most common or important grasses generally found on most farms. Further self-study of other important grasses is recommended to broaden your knowledge.
Explanation of icons used for the identification of grasses.
(Source: Guide to Grasses of Southern Africa)
Themeda triandra
Different perspectives of the Themeda triandra grass species
(Sources: Arthur Chapman; Bernard du Pont; Chiltern; Julie Burgher)
Latin name: Themeda triandra
Common name: Red Grass
Habitat: Red grass is commonly found in areas with an average to high rainfall and in undisturbed open grasslands and bushveld areas. Red grass prefers fertile soils, however, it can grow in most types of soil. Altitudes of 1 300 – 3 000 mm above sea level are where they are most prone to occur.
Similar species: Themeda triandra has great variation and lots of regional forms which vary in shape, size, and physical appearance. Of the 18 Themeda species which exist, only T. triandra appears in southern Africa.
Uses: In the open grassland areas of southern and eastern Africa, red grass is a very important grazing grass species. It is palatable and able to form dense stands where it easily dominates the veld. It can withstand fire and will even increase when burned regularly if overgrazing does not occur. An excellent indicator of veld in good and healthy condition.
Distribution: It is found in the subtropical and tropical parts of the Old World.
Other names: Red oat grass (E), Angelgras (A), Rooigras (A), Seboku (S), iNsinde (Z).
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Features
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Measurements Culms: 300 – 1 500 mm tall Inflorescence: 100 – 250 mm long Spikelets: 5 – 7 mm long Awns: 25 – 60 mm long Leaf blade: 150 – 300 mm long Leaf blade: 1 – 8 mm wide |
Cymbopogon caesius
Different perspectives of the Cymbopogon caesius grass species (Sources: Arthur Chapman; Siddarth Machado; David Hoare)
Latin name: Cymbopogon caesius
Common name: Broad-leaved Turpentine Grass
Habitat: This grass can grow in most soil types but is commonly found in sandy soils or coarse gravel soils along roadsides or disturbed veld. However, it can also be found in undisturbed veld.
Similar species: Cymbopogon caesius can easily be confused with C. pospischilii as they are closely related and found in similar habitats. C. pospischilii has narrower leaves and is concentrated around the base of the grass plant. The leaf blades’ base is as wide as the culm. C. caesius, therefore, has a less concentrated base as the leaves grow upwards along the culm of the plant and possess broader leaves.
Uses: In reality, it is the most unpalatable grass species even though it might look like the most desirable plant. Grazers will only utilise the bitter turpentine grass when there is no other grazing available. It is commonly used as thatching grass and in Lesotho, it is used to keep rodents away by lining grain baskets. Essential oil with 18 ingredients can be extracted from it with the most important ingredients being carvone, trans-carveole, and D-limonene.
Distribution: It can be found anywhere from southern Africa up to the far northeastern parts of Africa.
Other names: Ginger grass (E), Breëblaarterpentyngras (A), Patiane (S), imBubu (Z).
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Features
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Measurements Culms: 500 – 1600 mm tall Inflorescence: 80 – 250 mm long Racemes: 6 – 10 mm long Spikelets: 3.5 – 5 mm long Leaf blade: 50 – 300 mm long Leaf blade: up to 14 mm wide |
Cymbopogon pospischilii
Different perspectives of the Cymbopogon pospischilii grass species.
(Sources: Tony Rebelo; Charles Stirton; Robert Taylor; Nicola van Berkel)
Latin name: Cymbopogon pospischilii
Common name: Narrow-leaved Turpentine Grass
Habitat: It can be found in open patches in the Bushveld region as well as in the grassland regions. It prefers heavier soil types where it can create dominant stands of grass, however, it can grow in all soil types. In certain areas, this is a very common grass species and could be found in association with Themeda triandra grass.
Similar species: It is often confused and closely related to the C. caesius species and may occur in the same habitat. C. caesius has broader leaves, rounded leaf bases and a bright green colour. Leaves are more concentrated around the base of the plant in C. pospischilii. Two other closely related species are shorter and denser tufted and include the C. marginatus and C. dieterlenii species.
Uses: It can be grazed when it is very dry and no other grazing is available, but the essential oils that it possesses give it a bitter taste and therefore results in poor grazing.
Distribution: It can be found anywhere from southern Africa up to the far northeastern parts of Africa (Ethiopia and Somalia).
Other names: Bushveld turpentine grass (E), Smalblaarterpentyngras (A), Bitterblaar (A), uQunga (Z).
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Features
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Measurements Culms: 500 – 1700 mm tall Inflorescence: 80 – 300 mm long Spikelets: 5 – 6 mm long Leaf blade: 150 – 300 mm long Leaf blade: 2 – 5 mm wide |
Hyparrhenia hirta
Different perspectives of the Hyparrhenia hirta grass species
(Sources: MJ Correia; David Hoare; Errol Vela; Thomas C Wilson)
Latin name: Hyparrhenia hirta
Common name: Common Thatching Grass
Habitat: Requires well-drained soil, preferably gravel type and can be found in the open grassland as well as the bushveld area. It can dominate disturbed places, old, cultivated lands, and road reserves. Occasionally it can be found on heavier soils along riversides.
Similar species: It is closely related to H. filipendula and H. anamesa. Typically, these grasses have less than four awns per racemes. These pairs of racemes point outwards and in the case of H. anamesa, often in a downward direction. Although H. hirta is closely related to H. dregeana, H. finitima, H. nyassae and H. quarrei, the above-mentioned features can be used to distinguish them apart.
Uses: H. hirta is the most popular thatching grass used in South Africa. After a winter burn, it is easily enjoyed by cattle early in the growing season, but unfortunately, it becomes less palatable as they mature during the season and is less acceptable as grazing. Other uses may include weaving mats and baskets or using them for erosion control.
Distribution: This grass species is found in southern and eastern Africa, the Mediterranean regions, and Pakistan. Introduction to other parts of the world has also occurred.
Other names: Thatching grass (E), Gewone dekgras (A), Leqokwana (S), inTunga (Z).
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Features
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Measurements Culms: 400 – 1500 mm tall Inflorescence: 200 – 400 mm long Racemes: 20 – 40 mm long Spikelets: 4 – 6.5 mm long Awns: 10 – 35 mm long Leaf blade: 20 – 150 mm long Leaf blade: 1 – 4 mm wide |
Heteropogon contortus
Different perspectives of the Heteropogon contortus grass species.
(Sources: Alexis López Hernández; C. Mallory; Joyce; Estivaliz Alvarado)
Latin name: Heteropogon contortus
Common name: Spear Grass
Habitat: The preferred soil type for spear grass is sandy loam soil to clay loam soils, where some disturbance has occurred. It often forms dense grass stands along roadsides.
Similar species: Heteropogon contortus shows significant variation from one area to another in terms of hairiness, height, colour and branching of stems. Its inflorescences can on occasion be confused with the inflorescences of Trachypogon spicatus and Urelytrum agropyroides. These grasses can be distinguished from H. contortus by the fact that they are both taller and lack dark brown awns. H. melanocarpus is the only other Heteropogon species in southern Africa.
Uses: One of the most common grasses in our region is spear grass. Although it is well-grazed and relatively palatable, it has a significantly low leaf yield. The awns easily get stuck in the wool of sheep and thereby decrease the quality of the wool. Occasional penetration of the skin by these awns does occur which causes quite an irritation and results in severe sores. In Australia, this feature is responsible in large part for the wool industry collapse. In certain regions, it favours areas which are burned frequently.
Distribution: Present in all subtropical and tropical parts of the world.
Other names: Tanglehead (E), Assegaaigras (A), Seloka (S, Ts), isiTupe (Z).
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Features
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Measurements Culms: 200 – 1000 mm tall Inflorescence: 30 – 100 mm long Spikelets: 6 – 12 mm long Leaf blade: 30 – 300 mm long Leaf blade: 3 – 8 mm wide |
Elionurus muticus
Different perspectives of the Elionurus muticus grass species.
(Sources: Athol Ferguson; Johnny Wilson; Anthony Wilson; David Hoare)
Latin name: Elionurus muticus
Common name: Wire Grass
Habitat: Occurs mostly in open sour grasslands in soils which are sandy or gravelly. Can also commonly be found in sandy Bushveld areas. Common in overgrazed veld.
Similar species: Although it can be quite variable, it is not easily confused with other grass species when considering the specific features of wire grass.
Uses: The bitter taste and wiry leaves result in an unpalatable grass species. In spring, however, it is often the first grass to sprout and will then be utilised until another grazing is available in the case that there are no other more palatable species around. Its presence or abundance in the veld indicates previous overgrazing has occurred. In periods of light grazing and the absence of fire, it will start to decrease in number. An essential oil which contains 25 ingredients, two of the most important ingredients are cineole and camphene and can be extracted from wire grass.
Distribution: It exists in subtropical and tropical regions of Africa.
Other names: Silky grass (E), Lemon grass (E), Koperdraadgras (A), Suurpol (A), Hlooko (S), and isiNoma (Z).
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Features
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Measurements Culms: 200 – 1000 mm tall Inflorescence: 20 – 120 mm long Spikelets: 6 – 14 mm long Leaf blade: 10 – 150 mm long Leaf blade: 1 – 2 mm wide |
Anthephora pubescens
Different perspectives of the Anthephora pubescens grass species.
(Sources: Riana; Shobie)
Latin name: Anthephora pubescens
Common name: Wool Grass
Habitat: In semi-arid and arid regions wool grass commonly occurs in the undisturbed veld. Sandy soil is preferred, but can also be found in loam and gravelly soils.
Similar species: In our region (particularly Namibia) there are three other Anthephora species, namely A. argentea, A. ramosa, and A. schinzii. A. pubescens and A. argentea often occur in the same habitat and are easiest confused with each other. A. argentea leaves, however, do not have thickened margins nor do they curl up when they become dry.
Uses: It is well utilised by livestock and game species as it is a palatable grass. The common appearance in natural grazing is an indicator of good veld conditions. Due to its exceptionally high palatability, it can easily be overutilised by livestock and should be managed carefully.
In 1962, wool grass was first collected for experimental purposes as a pasture. Today, many arid regions of the world use it as a cultivated pasture. Wool grass is a particularly palatable grass species which performs well in poor soil.
Distribution: It appears from southern and eastern Africa up north to Sudan and Iran.
Other names: Bottlebrush grass (E), Borseltjiegras (A), Krulblaargras (A), Ausdauerndes kruggras (G).
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Features
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Measurements Culms: 300 – 1500 mm tall Inflorescence: 50 – 150 mm long Spikelets: 6 – 11 mm long Leaf blade: 100 – 150 mm long Leaf blade: 3 – 5 mm wide |
Tragus berteronianus
Different perspectives of the Tragus berteronianus grass species.
(Sources: Tony Rebelo; David Hoare)
Latin name: Tragus berteronianus
Common name: Carrot-seed Grass
Habitat: Carrot-seed grass prefers disturbed soils and is found in areas with bare soil and along roadsides. Hard, compacted soil can often be penetrated and colonised by this grass species first. Although it prefers loam soils, it can grow in a wide variety of soil types.
Similar species: This grass is closely related to T. racemosa and can easily be confused with it. Both species are pioneers who grow in similar environments. T. racemosa is more commonly found in arid regions with larger spikelets (3.5 – 5 mm long) and shorter inflorescences (approximately 70 mm long).
Uses: It is a tough grass which can grow in areas with bare and hard soils where other grasses can not survive. It is of little value to grazing and has a low leaf yield. As it is one of the first species to colonise an area, it protects the soil and helps improve the conditions and makes it more favourable for other larger grasses. When common in the natural veld, it indicates severe veld deterioration. In cultivated fields and gardens it is considered to be a weed. The barbed spikelets can cling to the wool fleece of sheep and are undesirable.
Distribution: It is found throughout Africa, Arabia, Afghanistan, China, and the warmer parts of North America and South America. It has also been naturalised in other parts of the world.
Other names: Bur grass (E), Kousklits (A), Klitsgras (A), Borebanja (S), Segowe (Ts).
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Features
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Measurements Culms: 50 – 600 mm tall Inflorescence: 20 – 150 mm long Spikelets: 2 – 3.5 mm long Leaf blade: 10 – 60 mm long Leaf blade: 2 – 5 mm wide |
Cenchrus ciliaris
Different perspectives of the Cenchrus ciliaris grass species.
(Sources: Eric Hough; Jacobus van der Linden; Wynand Uys)
Latin name: Cenchrus ciliaris
Common name: Blue Buffalo Grass
Habitat: Can be found in dry, hot regions and all soil types, although sandy loam and loam soils are preferred. Once established, it can grow as a pasture in clay soil.
Similar species: It is a variable grass with regional variation in colour and size. It can sometimes be confused with Enneapogon cenchroides (cenchroides means “looks like a Cenchrus”). However, unlike C. ciliaris, Enneapogon cenchroides has a condensed, branched panicle rather than an unbranched spike.
Uses: This grass has a high leaf production and palatability and is, therefore, a good grazing grass. As the plant matures, the palatability unfortunately decreases. In dry regions, it is the most common cultivated pasture with various commercial cultivars available. It makes excellent hay and is a hardy grass species used for summer grazing. Severe frost for extended periods will kill this grass.
Distribution: Natural occurrence in the semi-arid and subtropical regions of Africa, India and the Mediterranean is noted. It can also be found in many dry regions across the globe where it has been introduced and naturalised.
Other names: Foxtail buffalo grass (E), Bloubuffelsgras (A), Mfhafha (S), inTungamuzi (Z).
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Features
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Measurements Culms: 600 – 1000 mm tall Inflorescence: 40 – 120 mm long Spikelets: 2 – 5 mm long Leaf blade: 100 – 250 mm long Leaf blade: 4 – 10 mm wide |
Setaria sphacelata var. sericea
Different perspectives of the Setaria sphacelata sericea grass species.
(Sources: Suvarna Pabhoo Mohan; Random Harvest; Richard Gill)
Latin name: Setaria sphacelata var. sericea
Common name: Golden Bristle Grass
Habitat: Golden bristle grass grows in tropical areas, high rainfall bushveld, and mountainous grasslands. Most commonly grows in damp places such as wetlands and other areas where water gathers for example road reserves. Soils in which it grows include moist sandy loam soils to clay loam soils.
Similar species: Other closely related species include the S. sphacelata var. sphacelata and S. sphacelata var. splendida. Var. splendida is a larger grass that can reach up to 3 m tall and is rarely found in the wild but can be used as cultivated pasture. Var. sphacelata is a smaller grass species which grows in open grasslands.
Uses: It is a palatable grazing grass which offers high leaf yield. In the tropical regions it is used as cultivated pastures and various cultivars have been developed in South Africa, Kenya, and Australia. This species is easily established from seeds and able to tolerate flooding and waterlogged soils. The main purpose for this grass is grazing, “cut and carry” and it works well as silage.
Distribution: Natural occurrence in tropical Africa, but is also found in various other tropical and subtropical areas.
Other names: Large timothy grass (E), Goue mannagras (A), umFuhlo (Z), Mabele (Ts).
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Features
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Measurements Culms: 1000 – 2000 mm tall Inflorescence: 100 – 250 mm long Spikelets: 1.5 – 3.5 mm long Leaf blade: 100 – 500 mm long Leaf blade: 4 – 10 mm wide |
Setaria sphacelata var. sphacelata
Different perspectives of the Setaria sphacelata sphacelata grass species.
(Sources: Alan Lee; David Hoare; Douglas Euston Brown)
Latin name: Setaria sphacelata var. sphacelata
Common name: Common Bristle Grass
Habitat: Found in open grasslands as well as sandy woodlands and sandy bushveld. Many times, it can also be found next to a stream or on stony slopes. Well-drained, sandy soils are preferred.
Similar species: Closely related to S. sphacelata var. sericea and var. torta. Var. sericea has wider leaves (up to 10 mm wide) and larger (up to 2 m tall) than var. torta which is a small creeping grass with twisted dry leaves. All of them belong to the Setaria sphacelata-complex with different hybrids in between.
Uses: Grass is relatively well utilised by game and livestock, has an average to high leaf production and is very palatable. It can be planted for pastures or hay production. It is also used as an ornamental grass which attracts birds to gardens.
Distribution: It is found in East Africa and southern Africa.
Other names: Small timothy grass (E), Gewone mannagras (A), Mabele (Ts), umFuhlo (Z).
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Features
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Measurements Culms: 400 – 1000 mm tall Inflorescence: 30 – 150 mm long Spikelets: 1.5 – 3.5 mm long Leaf blade: 100 – 350 mm long Leaf blade: 2 – 5 mm wide |
Fingerhuthia africana
Different perspectives of the Fingerhuthia africana grass species.
(Sources: David Hoare; Dr Alexey Yakovlev; Shobie)
Latin name: Fingerhuthia africana
Common name: Thimble Grass
Habitat: Most commonly found in gravelly soil. Can also be found in eroded places and limestone areas. Generally found in warm, sunny locations.
Similar species: Thimble grass is one of two Fingerhuthia species, where the inflorescences on the other species, F. sesleriiformis, appear similar to F. africana, of which the latter is a more densely tufted grass which grows in clay soils in wetlands or waterlogged areas. Both species can occasionally be confused with Pennisetum species. However, Pennisetum species are hairier and not as prominently flattened.
Uses: Even though it is one of the most widespread grasses in southern Africa, it rarely occurs in the veld. It has average grazing potential. Occasionally it is used to make brooms. Thimble grass plays an important role in soil stabilisation and is an important subclimax to climax grass, especially in eroded areas.
Distribution: This grass can be found in southern Africa, Pakistan, Oman, Yemen, and Afghanistan as well as it has been introduced into Australia.
Other names: Vingerhoedgras (A), Klossiegras (A), Stechdegengras (G), Thitapoho (S).
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Features
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Measurements Culms: 100 – 900 mm tall Inflorescence: 15 – 50 mm long Spikelets: 4 – 5.5 mm long Leaf blade: 25 – 350 mm long Leaf blade: 2 – 5 mm wide |
Aristida congesta subsp. congesta
Different perspectives of the Aristida congesta congesta grass species.
(Sources: Reuben Jonker; Gigi Laidler; Ricky Taylor; David Hoare)
Latin name: Aristida congesta subsp. congesta
Common name: Tassel Three-awn
Habitat: Found in disturbed soils like road reserves, and previously cultivated lands bare patches in the overgrazed veld. Loam soils are preferred, but able to grow in all soil types.
Similar species: Closely related to A. congesta subsp. barbicollis. A combination of these species can produce hybrids which results in difficult identification at the subspecies level. Subsp. congesta is different from subsp. barbicollis since the latter has an open panicle with three or more branches.
Uses: The low forage yield results in it being a poor grazing grass. Surprisingly, in the semi-desert regions, it can be considered the most palatable grass causing it to be well utilised by game and small livestock. It can stabilise bare patches and disturbed soils under severe conditions as it is a hardy grass. When common, it is usually an indicator of veld degradation in most areas. Seeds cling to sheep and angora goats which decreases the quality of their wool and hair respectively.
Distribution: This grass is found across southern Africa, East Africa, into the northeastern parts of Africa and even the Mediterranean areas.
Other names: White stick grass (E), Aapstertsteekgras (A), Katstertsteekgras (A), Seloka (Ts), inGongoni (Z).
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Features
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Measurements Culms: 300 – 900 mm tall Inflorescence: 30 – 200 mm long Spikelets: 25 – 30 mm long Leaf blade: 30 – 280 mm long Leaf blade: up to 5 mm wide |
Stipagrostis ciliata
Different perspectives of the Stipagrostis ciliata grass species.
(Sources: Douglas Euston Brown; Marinda Koekemoer; Jorge Hernández López; De Winter)
Latin name: Stipagrostis ciliata
Common name: Tall Bushman Grass
Habitat: Known to occur in arid regions and is associated with the veld being in good condition. Most commonly grow in coarse sandy soil, frequently on gravel plains and in riverbeds.
Similar species: Variation is displayed within this species. Often it is seen accompanied by S. obtusa in the same habitat. S. obtusa is a shorter grass with dark, hairless nodes.
Uses: In the dry western parts of southern Africa, it is a very valuable grazing and highly palatable grass species. Tall bushman grass has a high nutritional value even when the grass has died and has a high leaf production. It effectively protects exposed soil from wind erosion and is an indicator species of veld in good condition.
Distribution: It is found in parts of southern Africa as well as Egypt and Tunisia.
Other names: Langbeen-boesmangras (A), Growwe twa (A), Bewimpertes federgras (G).
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Features
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Measurements Culms: 500 – 1000 mm tall Inflorescence: 10 – 300 mm long Spikelets: 6 – 12 mm long Awns: 40 – 50 mm long Leaf blade: 50 – 300 mm long Leaf blade: up to 2 mm wide |
Eragrostis capensis
Different perspectives of the Eragrostis capensis grass species.
(Sources: Sandra Falanga; David Hoare; Karol Cameron; Ricky Taylor)
Latin name: Eragrostis capensis
Common name: Heart-seed Love Grass
Habitat: Usually grows in vlei areas where there are moist soils for most of the year. Can be found in areas where the soil has been disturbed or along roadsides where additional rainwater gathers. This grass will grow in clay, sand, or loam soils.
Similar species: The spikelets can often be confused with those from similar species, E. superba and Briza maxima. E. superba spikelets are flatter with serrated edges and B. maxima points downward.
Uses: After veld fires and during early spring, heart-seed love grass is one of the first grasses to sprout. This provides for valuable grazing by livestock and game before other more palatable grasses become available for grazing. Unfortunately, it has a limited leaf yield. Lately, it has become a more ornamental grass for small gardens.
Distribution: Occurs in southern Africa, Central Africa, and East Africa along with Madagascar and it can also be found in Thailand.
Other names: Cape love grass (E), Hartjiesgras (A), Bosluisgras (A), umBhimbane (Z), Barwana (S).
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Features
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Measurements Culms: 200 – 900 mm tall Inflorescence: 40 – 110 mm long Spikelets: 4 – 15 mm long Spikelets: 3 – 7 mm wide Leaf blade: 70 – 350 mm long Leaf blade: 2 – 5 mm wide |
Eragrostis superba
Different perspectives of the Eragrostis superba grass species.
(Sources: Kathy Cox; David Hoare; Debra Hendricks; Nathan Taylor)
Latin name: Eragrostis superba
Common name: Saw-tooth Love Grass
Habitat: Saw-tooth love grass typically grows in soil that has been disturbed, such as bare spots in the veld and at the sides of roads. It occasionally does well in clay soil but primarily flourishes in sand, loam, and gravelly soil. On termite mounds, it also thrives.
Similar species: The spikelets can sometimes be confused with those of E. capensis, E. dinteri, E. pilgerana, and E. rogersii. E. capensis spikelets have smooth edges and the other grass species are small annual species.
Uses: Especially in the spring, saw-tooth love grass is a tasty grass that is well-grazed and grows swiftly. But as the season progresses, it gets harder and loses some of its nutritious content. An excellent grazing grass, especially in the drier areas of its range. In some nations, it is grown as a pasture resistant to drought. In combination with other grasses, saw-tooth love grass is a subclimax grass that is occasionally used to re-vegetate bare places in the veld.
Distribution: It can be found across southern and eastern Africa, all the way up north to Sudan. India, Australia, and the USA have all received it.
Other names: Flat-seed love grass (E), Weeluisgras (A), Hartjiesgras (A), Tsetse (S), uMadolwana (Z).
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Features
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Measurements Culms: 300 – 1000 mm tall Inflorescence: 100 – 300 mm long Spikelets: 6 – 16 mm long Spikelets: 3 – 10 mm wide Leaf blade: up to 400 mm long Leaf blade: 3 – 12 mm wide |
Eragrostis plana
Different perspectives of the Eragrostis plana grass species.
(Sources: Bart Wurtsen; David Hoare; Silvia R. Ziller)
Latin name: Eragrostis plana
Common name: Tough Love Grass
Habitat: Regions with grasslands and bushvelds are home to tough love grass. It flourishes in areas with disturbed soil, including former agricultural land, roadside ditches, and trampled areas like animal holding areas and watering holes. It may grow on any type of soil, but it prefers wet areas, particularly in the arid regions of its habitat.
Similar species: This species can sometimes be confused with Sporobolus africanus and S. pyramidalis. Both of these species mentioned are difficult to uproot and have strong leaves. With a magnifying glass, they may be seen to have numerous tiny spikelets with a single floret, and their bottom leaf sheaths are not noticeably flattened.
Uses: Although it is often a poor grazing grass, it is used in the more arid regions late in the growing season, presumably because the leaves stay green until then. Its frequent prevalence in the natural pasture is a sign of excessive veld burning or overgrazing. It is a well-liked grass used in the weaving of hats, bracelets, and other ornaments or decorations.
Distribution: Although it primarily occurs in southern Africa, it has also been introduced to India and Burma.
Other names: Fan love grass (E), Taaipol-eragrostis (A), Verdompsterkpol (A), Modula (S), umTshiki (S).
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Features
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Measurements Culms: 400 – 1000 mm tall Inflorescence: 150 – 250 mm long Spikelets: 6 – 10 mm long Leaf blade: up to 800 mm long Leaf blade: 2 – 5 mm wide |
Eragrostis tef
Different perspectives of the Eragrostis tef grass species.
(Sources: Wikimedia Commons; Rasbak; Agricol)
Latin name: Eragrostis tef
Common name: Teff
Habitat: Teff is frequently found along new roadsides and can be planted in old, cultivated lands. It is most often found in disturbed places in almost any type of soil.
Similar species: Most likely, Eragrostis tef is an enhanced variety of E. pilosa. The only difference between the two types of grass is that E. tef produces more leaves. The “veld grass” E. aethiopica, which is typically found close to seasonal waterholes in bushveld settings, is also closely related to it.
Uses: Teff was first created as an annual cultivated pasture in South Africa. It is a well-liked source of horse food and is especially appropriate for hay. Teff grass accounts for more than half of Ethiopia’s annual grain production. Teff seed is used to make “injera,” a sponge-like bread that is now commonly found on restaurant menus in big cities. Teff has recently gained popularity for reseeding exposed soils, frequently in combination with E. curvula or other perennial grasses.
Distribution: The northeastern parts of Africa are where teff first originated from. Southern Africa as well as many other tropical regions of the world have received seed from Ethiopia.
Other names: Tef (A).
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Features
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Measurements Culms: 200 – 900 mm tall Inflorescence: 100 – 300 mm long Spikelets: 6 – 9 mm long Leaf blade: up to 300 mm long Leaf blade: up to 4 mm wide |
Sporobolus fimbriatus
Different perspectives of the Sporobolus fimbriatus grass species.
(Sources: Wynand Uys; Royal Botanic Gardens)
Latin name: Sporobolus fimbriatus
Common name: Dropseed Grass
Habitat: Well-drained soil such as sandy soil is preferred by Dropseed grass. Most commonly found in damp areas along rivers, next to the road in water courses and under trees in the shade.
Similar species: It is closely related to S. pyramidalis, S. natalensis, and S. africanus between which intermediates are often formed. However, these species cannot be mistaken for the typical forms of S. fimbriatus.
Uses: In the young stage, this grass is well grazed. Dropseed grass has a high leaf yield and is a palatable grazing grass. Although prussic acid is present, poisoning is rarely an issue. The spikelets can be ground to make porridge in times of food shortages.
Distribution: It is present throughout southern Africa, East Africa, and as far north as Somalia and Sudan.
Other names: Common dropseed (E), Fynsaadgras (A), Motolo a maholo (S), Moshanje (Ts).
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Features
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Measurements Culms: 300 – 1500 mm tall Inflorescence: 150 – 400 mm long Spikelets: 1.4 – 2.2 mm long Leaf blade: 100 – 300 mm long Leaf blade: 2 – 10 mm wide |
Eragrostis gummiflua
Different perspectives of the Eragrostis gummiflua grass species.
(Sources: Riana; David Hoare; Random Harvest Nursery)
Latin name: Eragrostis gummiflua
Common name: Gum Grass
Habitat: Grassland and bushland areas are home to gum grass. It thrives in moist regions like seepage zones and water-holding areas, frequently it is found in areas where there has been some sort of disturbance in the past. Although it also thrives in gravelly soil, it favours sandy soil for growth.
Similar species: This particular species is not easily confused with other species. Although E. viscosa can also be sticky, it is an annual and has hairy spikelets. Due to having less compacted spikelets than other Eragrostis species, E. gummiflua is often not regarded as an Eragrostis species.
Uses: Gum grass is rarely if ever, grazed by animals, as it is extremely tough and highly unpalatable. In overgrazed veld is where this subclimax grass is most frequently found. It creates excellent brooms.
Distribution: It is only found in southern Africa and has not been recorded in Malawi, Zambia, or Angola.
Other names: Sticky-stem love grass (E), Gomgras (A), Kleefgras (A), Kgitapoho (S).
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Features
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Measurements Culms: 300 – 900 mm tall Inflorescence: 150 – 250 mm long Spikelets: 2.5 – 4 mm long Leaf blade: up to 350 mm long Leaf blade: 2 – 4 mm wide |
Eragrostis curvula
Different perspectives of the Eragrostis curvula grass species.
(Sources: Dave Richardson; Tjeerd DW; Priyantha Wijesinghe)
Latin name: Eragrostis curvula
Common name: Weeping Love Grass
Habitat: Weeping love grass is a relatively common grass that typically grows in disturbed soil, including former farmed lands and roadside ditches. It is primarily found in fertile, well-drained soils. It is related to overgrazed and trampled veld in areas with excessive rainfall.
Similar species: The grass, Eragrostis curvula, has a wide range of growth types. It is frequently mistaken for E. chloromelas. The latter has narrower, shorter leaves with generally curled leaf ends.
Uses: In South Africa’s cooler highveld regions, weeping love grass is a prominent cultivated pasture. Additionally, it is a well-liked pasture in many other nations. It is simple to establish, responds well to fertilisation, offers grazing in the early spring, and produces high-quality hay. To re-vegetate exposed soil along new highways, dam walls, and other sites, it is also commonly utilised in a mixture. However, because of its poor palatability, it is not regarded as ideal grazing in natural rangeland.
Distribution: Although it originated from southern to East Africa, it now appears in many other parts of the world either as a fodder crop or a weed.
Other names: African love grass (E), Oulandsgras (A), Matolo (S), umSingizane (Z).
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Features
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Measurements Culms: 300 – 1200 mm tall Inflorescence: 100 – 300 mm long Spikelets: 4 – 10 mm long Leaf blade: up to 400 mm long Leaf blade: up to 4 mm wide |
Melinis repens
Different perspectives of the Melinis repens grass species.
(Sources: Luis E. Quijano Gonzalez; Ryan Yue Wah Chan; Daniel Cohen)
Latin name: Melinis repens
Common name: Natal Red-Top
Habitat: In our area, Natal red-top is quite widely spread. It primarily grows in disturbed soil, such as along roadsides and former agricultural areas (subsp. repens), or sunny, arid locations (subsp. grandiflora). Despite preferring well-drained soil, it may succeed in all types of soil.
Similar species: Two subspecies exist, namely: subsp. grandiflora and subsp. repens. Subsp. repens are mostly found along roadsides in disturbed soils, while subsp. grandiflora is more commonly found in natural veld. M. repens and M. nerviglumis are frequently mistaken. The latter is a perennial with dense grass tufts, and narrow leaf blades and has more dense inflorescences than M. repens.
Uses: The bright inflorescences stand out against the sun and are a common sight along many routes in southern Africa. One of the best-known pioneer grasses in southern Africa, it is crucial for stabilising disturbed soil. Although generally having a low leaf yield, it is fairly palatable.
Distribution: It grows naturally across all of Africa and has also established itself in other tropical areas. It is an alien weed that is known as Natal grass in the USA and Australia.
Other names: Red-top (E), Natal-rooipluim (A), Mokxola (S), Lenapa (Ts).
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Features
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Measurements Culms: 250 – 900 mm tall Inflorescence: 50 – 200 mm long Spikelets: 3 – 8 mm long Leaf blade: 40 – 200 mm long Leaf blade: 2 – 11 mm wide |
Panicum maximum
Different perspectives of the Panicum maximum grass species.
(Sources: iNaturalist Taiwan; Luis Vigaso; Allen; Obrock)
Latin name: Panicum maximum
Common name: White Buffalo Grass
Habitat: Guinea grass can be found in fynbos, karoo, and grassland areas, but it is most common in bushveld areas. Although it occasionally grows in the open, it flourishes in the shade of trees and shrubs. It may grow in any sort of soil; however, it loves fertile soil. It frequently appears as a weed on disturbed soil.
Similar species: In terms of size, Panicum maximum is a widely varied species with numerous regional ecotypes. In general, tropical ecotypes are bigger than subtropical types. P. maximum differs from other closely related Panicum species by having lower panicle branches grouped in a whorl.
Uses: In its geographic span of distribution, white buffalo grass is likely the most valuable grazing grass. It grows abundantly on veld in good condition, has a high leaf yield, and is especially palatable. Guinea grass is a well-liked cultivated pasture for tropical areas due to its great palatability, leaf development, and good seed production. In areas of sugarcane, guinea grass is a stubborn weed as well. Birds that eat seeds are especially fond of the spikelets that resemble millet.
Distribution: It emerged from Africa but can now be found in virtually any tropical part of the world.
Other names: Guinea grass (E), Witbuffelsgras (A), Bobonare (S), uBabe (Z).
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Features
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Measurements Culms: 600 – 2000 mm tall Inflorescence: 100 – 300 mm long Spikelets: 2.5 – 3 mm long Leaf blade: 60 – 400 mm long Leaf blade: 4 – 20 mm wide |
Eragrostis lehmanniana
Different perspectives of the Eragrostis lehmanniana grass species.
(Sources: Ricky Taylor; Patrick Alexander; Matt Lavin; Ryan Donnelly)
Latin name: Eragrostis lehmanniana
Common name: Lehmann’s Love Grass
Habitat: In karoo and bushveld areas, Lehmann’s love grass can be found. It typically grows in disturbed soil, primarily sandy soil, such as overgrazed veld, old, farmed lands, or roadsides. In arid areas, it also grows in untouched sandveld.
Similar species: Eragrostis lehmanniana comes in two different varieties: var. chaunantha and var. lehmanniana. The main difference between them is that the less frequent of the two, var. chaunantha, has hairy nodes and culms. E. lehmanniana is similar to and often confused with E. rigidior, E. barbinodis, and E. trichophora. The lower branches on the inflorescences of E. trichophora and E. rigidior are organised in a whorl, and the first two species share the trait of having curled, dried leaves. For more details, view the description of these species as well.
Uses: It is one of the first grasses to start growing in spring and has valuable grazing in arid regions. Unfortunately, it has a rather low leaf production ability. A common use for this grass is to re-seed bare sandy or loam soils in arid areas.
Distribution: This grass normally occurs in southern Africa (Angola and Zambia included). It was introduced as a drought-resistant fodder crop in East Africa and India, where it is still present today.
Other names: Knietjiesgras (A), Ombidangolo (O).
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Features
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Measurements Culms: 200 – 600 mm tall Inflorescence: 50 – 200 mm long Spikelets: 4 – 8 mm long Leaf blade: up to 100 mm long Leaf blade: 1.5 – 3 mm wide |
Aristida congesta subsp. barbicollis
Different perspectives of the Aristida congesta barbicollis grass species.
(Sources: Glynn Alard; Christien Steyn; Random Harvest Nursery; Shobie)
Latin name: Aristida congesta subsp. barbicollis
Common name: Spreading Three-awn
Habitat: Bushveld and grassland environments are home to spreading three-awns. It thrives on disturbed soil, including bare spots in the overgrazed veld, road reserves, and former agricultural sites. It does well in all sorts of soil but prefers loamy ones.
Similar species: Aristida congesta subsp. barbicollis and A. congesta subsp. congesta has a close connection. Because these two subspecies hybridize frequently, it is challenging to tell them apart. In contrast to the subsp. barbicollis, the typical subsp. congesta has a panicle that is tightly contracted and has no more than two spreading lower branches.
Uses: As a result of its low leaf yield and the fact that it can only be grazed during the early stages, makes it a poor grazing grass. Due to its hardiness, it can assist in effectively stabilising bare and disturbed areas of land. The presence of this grass in an area is therefore an indicator of veld disturbances and overgrazing. The seeds penetrate sheep and angora goats’ wool and hair and decrease the quality of the product.
Distribution: Can be found from southern Africa to eastern Africa.
Other names: Wire grass (E), Lossteekgras (A), Bolepo (S), inGongoni (Z).
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Features
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Measurements Culms: 200 – 800 mm tall Inflorescence: 70 – 200 mm long Spikelets: 20 – 30 mm long Leaf blade: 30 – 200 mm long Leaf blade: up to 3 mm wide |
Digitaria eriantha
Different perspectives of the Digitaria eriantha grass species
(Sources: Wynand Uys; Alison Young; David Hoare)
Latin name: Digitaria eriantha
Common name: Common Finger Grass
Habitat: In areas with high rainfall, common finger grass can be found in damp soils near wetlands, while in arid areas it is found in sandy and gravelly types of soil. Although it mainly occurs in the undisturbed veld, it does utilise a wide variety of different habitat types.
Similar species: As a variable grass, Digitaria eriantha is made up of several previously recognised species and variants. Among these species, D. decumbens (with stolons and branching culms), D. pentzii (with stolons and unbranched culms), D. smutsii (a strong grass without stolons), and D. eriantha (without stolons and with unbranched culms) were the most significant.
Uses: One of southern Africa’s best natural and cultivated pastures is made up of common finger grass which is a very palatable grass species. It can be used as an indicator species of veld in good condition in the case where it is abundant. It is thought to be a tasty, cultivated pasture that can be utilised for grazing, hay, or standing hay. In the USA, Australia, and South Africa, numerous cultivars have been created. It is frequently utilised to prevent soil erosion or to improve veld.
Distribution: Its natural occurrence is only found in southern Africa, Angola, and Zambia but many other countries have cultivated it as a pasture grass.
Other names: Woolly finger grass (E), Smutsvinger (A), Moeane (S), isiKonko (Z).
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Features
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Measurements Culms: 400 – 1800 mm tall Racemes: 50 – 200 mm long Spikelets: 2 – 4 mm long Leaf blade: 50 – 400 mm long Leaf blade: 2 – 14 mm wide |
Chloris gayana
Different perspectives of the Chloris gayana grass species.
(Sources: Unknown; Nicholas John Fischer; Ryan Donnelly; Arthur Chapman)
Latin name: Chloris gayana
Common name: Rhodes Grass
Habitat: Rhodes grass grows in fynbos, grassland, and occasionally bushveld habitats. In dry locations, it typically grows in wetlands and near rivers, while in areas with higher rainfall, it grows in disturbed soil along roadside edges. It is frequently found along roadways as well, where it was established with the purpose of helping stabilise embankments. It grows in all fertile soil.
Similar species: Rhodes grass can easily be mistaken or confused with Eustachys paspaloides. E. paspaloides can be distinguished by its stiff brown spikes and the purple and flattened lower leaf sheaths.
Uses: Excellent grazing grass which is used in moderate to high rainfall areas as cultivated pastures. It is recognised as a tasty pasture that is simple to establish and can withstand intense grazing. The stabilisation of exposed soil along new highways and on dam walls is another frequent usage of it. The first imported lines from India were likely brought to the Cape by Cecil John Rhodes in 1895.
Distribution: Although it originated in tropical Africa, India, and China, it is now found in many other regions of the globe. Most of the communities in southern Africa are likely descended from imported stock.
Other names: Rhodesian blue grass (E), Bruinvingergras (A), umNyankomo (Z).
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Features
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Measurements Culms: 500 – 1200 mm tall Spikes: 50 – 130 mm long Spikelets: 3 – 5 mm long Awns: 1 – 10 mm long Leaf blade: 250 – 500 mm long Leaf blade: 3 – 9 mm wide |
Cynodon dactylon
Different perspectives of the Cynodon dactylon grass species.
(Sources: Eric Koberle; Alexis Orion; Ron van der Hoff)
Latin name: Cynodon dactylon
Common name: Couch Grass
Habitat: All types of soil, notably fertile and sandy soil, support the growth of couch grass. It can be found in disturbed soil in places like gardens, roadside ditches, and cultivated lands.
Similar species: Other creeping grasses having comparable inflorescences to Cynodon dactylon’s could include C. aethiopicus, C. nlemfuensis, Digitaria didactyla, D. diversinervis, and D. longiflora. However, none of these grasses has rhizomes (underground creepers); instead, they all solely have stolons (surface creepers). The inflorescence of D. abyssinica, which does have rhizomes, is semi-digitate.
Uses: Couch grass is a well-known lawn grass and cultivated pasture which is drought-resistant. Many varieties of it are readily accessible commercially, including hybrids with other Cynodon species. It is thought to be grass that can withstand intense grazing and provides palatable pasture. Couch grass is a fair to good pasture grass in its native state, remaining green well into the winter. Unfortunately, the stolons and rhizomes that make the grass a great soil stabiliser also make it a stubborn weed that is challenging to control mechanically.
Distribution: Considered to be one of the most widespread grasses and occurs in all areas with a moderate to warm climate around the world.
Other names: Bermuda grass (E), Kweekgras (A), Mohlwa (S, Ts), uQethu (Z).
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Features
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Measurements Culms: 50 – 400 mm tall Racemes: 20 – 60 mm long Spikelets: 2 – 2.5 mm long Leaf blade: 10 – 120 mm long Leaf blade: 2 – 4 mm wide |
Chloris virgata
Different perspectives of the Chloris virgata grass species.
(Sources: Tony Rebelo; Wynand Uys; Travis Stephens)
Latin name: Chloris virgata
Common name: Feather-top Chloris
Habitat: A relatively common grass called feather-top chloris thrives in disturbed soil, particularly in areas where water accumulates after rain. It grows in all types of soil; however, clay soil is where it thrives the most. It frequently appears on the border of seasonal pans. It is also a typical weed in gardens and other cultivated areas.
Similar species: C. gayana and C. roxburghiana are relatives of Chloris virgata. However, the tips of the lemmas on the spikelets of these two types of grass lack the customary tufts of hair. Refer to the descriptions of those species for additional distinctions.
Uses: In South Africa’s maize-growing regions, it is a well-known weed that is manageable with mechanical or chemical treatment. In the more arid regions, where there are fewer palatable perennial kinds of grass, it is an important grazing grass. However, overgrazing of this grass can seriously degrade the veld. It is a vital pioneer plant that can be utilised to re-vegetate barren portions of land and is frequently the first grass to grow on bare ground. Sometimes the spikelets stick to the wool of sheep.
Distribution: It is found almost anywhere in the world where the climate is mild and warm.
Other names: Old lands grass (E), Witpluim-chloris (A), Sehabane (S), amaFusine (Z).
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Features
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Measurements Culms: 300 – 750 mm tall Spikes: 20 – 80 mm long Spikelets: 3 – 3.5 mm long Awns: 2 – 15 mm long Leaf blade: 100 – 300 mm long Leaf blade: 2 – 6 mm wide |
Paspalum dilatatum
Different perspectives of the Paspalum dilatatum of the grass species.
(Sources: William Domenge; Renier Richter; Duarte Frade)
Latin name: Paspalum dilatatum
Common name: Dallis Grass
Habitat: Dallis grass primarily thrives in wet locations like vlei areas and beside rivers. It frequently grows as a weed in lawns, agricultural areas, roadside ditches, and gardens. It favours soils with clay and loam.
Similar species: Urochloa mosambicensis and Paspalum dilatatum are sometimes mistaken for one another. The latter, on the other hand, has rigid racemes rather than tufts of white hairs where the central axis connects the racemes. P. urvillei, a denser, upright tufted grass with inflexible hairs at the base of the plant, is closely related to P. dilatatum.
Uses: It has a moderate to high leaf yield and is a tasty grazing grass. It is not frequently found in our region’s native veld. Particularly on rich, moist clay and loam soils, it is frequently utilised as a farmed pasture in tropical highlands and moist, temperate grassland regions. Dallis grass is however vulnerable to ergot (Claviceps paspali), a deadly, dark-coloured fungus that lives on the spikelets. Dallis grass is a serious nuisance weed that should ideally be controlled while it is still a seedling, especially in fruit orchards. Once it has grown to maturity, it is challenging to get rid of.
Distribution: Although it originates from South America (Brazil and Argentina), it now occurs almost all over the world.
Other names: Common paspalum (E), Gewone paspalum (A) Bohlwa (S).
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Features
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Measurements Culms: 500 – 1500 mm tall Inflorescence: 60 – 100 mm long Spikelets: 3 – 4 mm long Leaf blade: 90 – 350 mm long Leaf blade: 6 – 14 mm wide |