SafePlants

Tropical Crabgrass: A Detailed Overview

The name "Tropical Crabgrass" is a common name applied to several grass species within the genus Digitaria. This overview will delve into various aspects of these grasses, including their taxonomy, distribution, and ecological roles.

Common and Scientific Names

• Common Name: Tropical Crabgrass, Asian Crabgrass, Summer Grass, Southern Grass
• Scientific Name: The name refers to several species including Digitaria argillacea, Digitaria bicornis, and Digitaria ciliaris.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Kingdom: Plantae
• Family: Poaceae (Grass family)
• Genus: Digitaria Haller (Crabgrass)

Synonyms and alternative scientific names include:

• Digitaria argillacea (Hitchc. &amp Chase) Fernald
• Digitaria bicornis (Lam.) Roemer &amp J.A. Schultes ex Loud.

Distribution and Habitat

• Crabgrasses, including tropical crabgrass, are native to tropical and warm temperate environments.
• They are found in numerous countries and can adjust to both tropical and temperate conditions.
• In the U.S., two species (smooth and hairy crabgrass) are found throughout semi-tropical and temperate zones.
• Frequently found in open, disturbed habitats.
• Five crabgrass species are prevalent in Florida.

Morphological Characteristics

• Grows in light-green to bluish-colored clumps.
• Annual grass that bends and roots at lower nodes.
• Leaf sheaths and blades are hairy.
• Blades are usually over 2 inches (6 cm) long.
• Visible membranous ligule at the base of the leaf.

Ecological Role

• Crabgrass is often considered a weed, invading lawns and flower beds.
• It competes with various crops.
• Can be problematic in temperate and tropical regions.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Crabgrass is known to resemble tropical signalgrass, leading to misidentification.