SafePlants

Agrostis (Bentgrass or Bent)

Agrostis, commonly known as bentgrass or bent, is a widespread genus of plants belonging to the grass family.

Considerations for Pets

• Bentgrass may be treated with fungicides to control diseases like brown patch.

Considerations for Children

• Bentgrass may be treated with fungicides to control diseases like brown patch.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Genus: Agrostis
• Family: Poaceae (grass family)
• Common Names: Bentgrass, Bent
• Species Examples:
  • Agrostis capillaris (Colonial bentgrass, Brown top)
  • Agrostis canina (Brown Bent-grass, Velvet bentgrass)
  • Agrostis stolonifera (Creeping bentgrass)
  • Agrostis vinealis (Brown bentgrass)
  • Agrostis castellana
• Synonyms: Microdochium (as related to pink snow mold)

Distribution and Habitat

• Agrostis is found in nearly all countries worldwide, making it a cosmopolitan genus.
• Colonial bentgrass (Agrostis capillaris) has traditionally been used in Northern Europe.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Bentgrass is a cool-season grass that grows rapidly in cool, wet conditions.
• Creeping bentgrass (Agrostis stolonifera) leaves may develop a reddish-brown, purple, or blue-gray color, especially on lower-cut putting greens.
• Bentgrass has a finer texture and a blue-green color.
• Creeping bentgrass is a low-growing, perennial grass.
• Brown Bent-grass (Agrostis canina) has slender stems and narrow leaves.

Ecological Role

• Bentgrass can become a problem in home lawns, where it may be unwanted.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• A multitude of fungal pathogens attack creeping bentgrass.
• Common diseases include dollar spot, yellow tuft, fairy ring, pink snow mold, and brown patch.
• Brown patch can be caused by different species of Rhizoctonia.

Cultivation and Uses

• Colonial bentgrass has traditionally been used as a lawn and golf course grass.
• Bentgrass best tolerates very close cutting.