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toothache grass

Scientific Name: Ctenium

Family: Poaceae

Category: Monocot

Growth:

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Toothache Grass (Ctenium aromaticum)

Ctenium aromaticum, commonly known as toothache grass, is a perennial grass native to the southeastern United States.

Considerations for Pets

  • Livestock is known to graze on toothache grass, especially during the spring and summer.

Considerations for Children

  • The name "toothache grass" stems from historical accounts that chewing the grass may have a numbing effect. It also has a pungent taste.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Ctenium aromaticum (Walter) Alph. Wood
  • Common Name: Toothache grass
  • Family: Poaceae (grass family)
  • Synonyms: Campulosus aromaticus
  • Note: Another species, Ctenium floridanum (Hitchcock) Hitchcock, also known as Florida Toothache Grass, is referenced and may be considered a related species. Its synonym is Campulosus floridanus Hitchc.

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to the southeastern coastal plain of the United States.
  • Specifically found in Florida, including the northern counties and south to the central peninsula.
  • Grows in wet flatwoods and is found in areas like the Apalachicola National Forest in Florida.

Morphological Characteristics

  • A perennial warm-season clump grass.
  • Typically grows to a height of 2 to 3 feet.
  • Has dense one-sided spikes.

Quirky Facts

  • The grass contains isobutylamide numbing agents, potentially explaining its common name "toothache grass." These agents are most concentrated in the region where the roots join the base of the stems.
  • It has been historically referred to as "orange grass".

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • Livestock grazes on this grass.
  • The grass's presence and growth are influenced by fire.

Further Information

  • Additional information can be found at the PLANTS Web site and potentially at a specific state's resources (reference to "y State").
  • The USDA NRCS PLANTS Database is a valuable resource.
  • Dave's Garden is noted as a friendly community that shares tips and ideas for gardens, along with seeds and plants.
  • Biodiversitylibrary.org provides observations with particular reference to fire.
  • The RHS (Royal Horticultural Society) provides information.