SafePlants

Crabgrass: A Common Lawn Weed

Crabgrass, a common nuisance in lawns and gardens, belongs to the genus Digitaria. This plant is known for its rapid spread and resilience, often requiring considerable effort to control.

Common Names

• Crabgrass
• Finger-grass
• Fonio

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Digitaria
• Family: Grass family

Considerations for Pets

• Crabgrass is a common plant found in lawns and gardens.
• Large crabgrass (_Digitaria sanguinalis_) has hairy leaves and sheaths.

Distribution and Habitat

Crabgrass is native to tropical and warm temperate regions and has been introduced to other areas, including North America and Eurasia, where it is often considered a weed.

Ecological Role

• Crabgrass is an annual weed known for its aggressive growth, often forming dense mats that can smother desirable grasses.
• It is considered a pest in lawns, gardens, and farm fields due to its ability to crowd out other plants.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Crabgrass is an annual grassy weed that spreads along the ground.
• Large crabgrass (_Digitaria sanguinalis_) can be purplish or green.
• Leaves of large crabgrass are hairy.
• Smooth crabgrass is light green when it first appears and turns a darker, dull green as it grows, forming flattened shapes.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Crabgrass competes with desirable grasses for resources, often requiring control measures to prevent it from taking over lawns.

Control and Management

• Crabgrass control methods include preemergence and postemergence herbicides, as well as cultural practices to promote healthy turf.

Resources and Further Information

• UC Home and Landscape Guidelines
• University of Connecticut, Department of Plant Science
• Dictionary.com for definitions and pronunciations