SafePlants

Carpetgrass (Axonopus spp.)

Carpetgrass is a common name for plants in the genus Axonopus, belonging to the grass family (Poaceae). These grasses are primarily native to tropical and subtropical regions.

Common Names

• Carpetgrass
• Broadleaf Carpetgrass (Axonopus compressus)
• Narrowleaf Carpetgrass (Axonopus affinis, Axonopus fissifolius)
• American Carpet Grass
• Tropical Carpet Grass (Axonopus compressus)
• Blanket Grass
• Lawn Grass
• Louisiana Grass
• Savanna Grass
• Mat Grass
• Kearsney
• Caratao Grass
• Tall Carpet Grass
• Teppichgras (German)
• Capim-bananal (Portuguese)
• Pasto-chato (Portuguese)

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Genus: Axonopus
• Family: Poaceae (Grass family)

Synonyms include Axonopus affinis syn. Axonopus fissifolius.

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to tropical and subtropical regions, including the Americas.
• Found in the southeastern United States, from East Texas to Florida and north to Virginia, Alabama, and Arkansas.
• Habitats include fields, woods, roadsides, and pastures.
• Often found in sandy soils.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Perennial, creeping grass.
• Forms a dense sod.
• Coarse-leaved.
• Low-growing.
• A. compressus has a creeping stem which roots at the nodes.
• A. compressus culms ascendent, 20-50.

Ecological Role

• Can be invasive in certain environments.
• Excellent for controlling erosion.
• Suppresses weeds once established.

Uses

• Planting in boggy or shady areas where other grasses won't grow.
• Lawns.
• Pastures.
• Landscape applications.
• Fairways.
• Artificial lawns.
• Summer sport fields, parks &amp reserves.

Quirky Facts

• Carpetgrass is sometimes referred to as "Louisiana grass" in the USA.

Further Information

• USDA plant profile and distribution maps available.
• Clemson University, Home &amp Garden Information Center.