SafePlants

Crowfoot Grass: A Detailed Look

This article explores the characteristics, distribution, and uses of Crowfoot Grass, a common plant found in various regions worldwide.

Scientific and Common Names

• Scientific Name: Dactyloctenium aegyptium
• Common Names: Crowfoot Grass, Egyptian Crowfoot Grass
• Other Common Names: Beach Wiregrass, Button Grass, Duck Grass, Giant Button Grass, Finger Comb Grass, Egyptian Grass, Coast Button Grass, Comb Fringe Grass, Durban Crowfoot, Egyptian Fingergrass, Helicopter Grass

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Family: Poaceae (Grass family)
• Order: Poales
• Synonyms: Several common names are used synonymously with the scientific name.

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to Africa and Asia.
• Widely introduced in Europe and the Americas.
• Common in Eastern and Southern states (US), particularly along the coast.
• Found in central Yucatan, Mexico (near Chichen Itza Ruins).
• Prefers heavy soils at damp sites.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Annual grass, not stoloniferous (does not spread by runners).
• Culms (stems) up to 50 cm tall, with up to 5 nodes.
• Characterized by a "bird's foot" digitate inflorescence (flower arrangement).
• Unique five-spiked flowers that resemble a crow's foot.
• Spreading annual grass, sometimes rooting from lower nodes.

Uses

• Mainly used as fodder (animal feed).

Quirky Facts

• The plant grows to about a foot tall, and the grains can get dirt in them. Harvesting involves simply tugging at the plant.

Further Information

• For questions, contact Brent Sellers at (863) 735-1314.
• EatTheWeeds: http://www.eattheweeds.com/dactyloctenium-aegyptium-true-grits-2/
• ISB: Atlas of Florida: Dactyloctenium aegyptium - Species Page
• Dave's Garden: A community that shares tips and ideas for gardens, along with seeds and plants.