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Florida threeawn

Scientific Name: Aristida rhizomophora

Family: Poaceae

Category: Monocot

Growth: Graminoid

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Florida Threeawn (Aristida rhizomophora)

Aristida rhizomophora, commonly known as Florida Threeawn, is a perennial grass species endemic to Florida.

Considerations for Pets

  • This grass has distinctive curled leaves, which could potentially be chewed on by pets.

Considerations for Children

  • Florida Threeawn can seed aggressively, potentially leading to the spread of seeds.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Aristida rhizomophora Swallen
  • Common Names: Florida Threeawn, Florida Three-awn Grass
  • Family: Poaceae (Grass Family)
  • Synonyms:
    • Aristida floridana (KEY WEST THREEAWN). Note: This is listed as an accepted name, which suggests it may be a closely related species or former classification.

Distribution and Habitat

  • Endemic to Florida in the United States.
  • Found in dry flatwoods, scrub, and dry disturbed sites within the peninsula of Florida.
  • Specifically mentioned in the context of South Florida.

Ecological Role

  • Can seed aggressively and form fairly dense stands if left unmanaged.

Morphological Characteristics

  • A wiregrass relative.
  • Has a tall branching flower stalk.
  • Grows to 2-3 feet when flowering.
  • The plant is medium in size and can reach 2 meters high.
  • Assumes a green-white coloring in spring, summer, autumn and winter.
  • Evergreen.
  • Has distinctive curled leaves.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • Grazed by livestock from early spring until May or June. Palatability decreases sharply after May.
  • Closely associated with saw palmetto in pineland ecosystems.
  • Important for butterfly diversity.

Further Information

  • USDA PLANTS Database profile for Aristida rhizomophora
  • Atlas of Florida Vascular Plants
  • Discover Life page about Aristida rhizomophora
  • Garden Guides for information on gardening with Florida Threeawn