SafePlants

Forked Three-awn Grass (Aristida basiramea)

Forked Three-awn Grass, scientifically known as Aristida basiramea, is a graminoid (grass-like) plant. It is also known by several other common names, including forktip threeawn and wiregrass.

Considerations for Pets

• The plant is a grass and produces seeds, which could be of interest to some pets.
• The name "needlegrass" is also associated with the plant, which may indicate sharp features.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Aristida basiramea Engelm. ex Vasey
• Common Names: Forked Three-awn Grass, Forked Threeawn, Forktip Threeawn, Wiregrass, Needlegrass, Annual Three-awn
• Genus: Aristida L.
• Family: Poaceae (Grass Family) / Gramineae
• Rank: Species
• Synonyms: Aristida basiramea var. basiramea

Distribution and Habitat

• Aristida basiramea is native to Texas and other states in the United States.
• It is also found in Florida and Illinois.
• The plant can be found in open areas with shallow soil.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Aristida basiramea is an annual plant, meaning it completes its life cycle in one year.
• It is a graminoid, resembling grass in its form.
• The plant is characterized by three awns (bristle-like appendages) that are forked near the tip, although this feature requires close inspection to observe.

Quirky Facts

• The seeds of Forked Three-awn Grass possess a mechanism that aids in planting.
• The plant is described as "globally stable but very rare in the state," suggesting it is not threatened overall but may be uncommon in specific locations.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Forked Three-awn Grass is a species of interest in surveys for species at risk (SAR), such as the Five-lined Skink and Hognose Snake.

Further Information

• The Plant List
• Discover Life
• Integrated Taxonomic Information System (ITIS)
• ISM Herbarium
• United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)