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American grama
Scientific Name: Bouteloua americana
Family: Poaceae
Category: Monocot
Growth: Graminoid
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Bouteloua: The Grama Grasses
The genus Bouteloua, commonly known as grama grass, encompasses various grasses found in western North America and South America. These grasses often form dense tufts or mats and are frequently used for pasturage.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Genus: Bouteloua
- Family: Poaceae (Grass Family)
- Synonyms: Grama, Gramma, Gramma grass
Distribution and Habitat
- Grama grasses are primarily native to North America, with some species found in Central and South America.
- Specific locations mentioned include:
- Southern Mexico
- Central America
- West Indies
- Northern South America
- American Great Plains
- Western North America
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- Grama grasses may grow in tufts or clumps, or spread by other means.
- They are warm-season grasses.
Ecological Role
- Blue grama is a major native grass species of the American Great Plains, along with buffalograss.
- Blue Grama can be planted for erosion control and attracts wildlife.
- The North American prairie, where grama grasses are prevalent, is one of the most endangered ecosystems on Earth.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Hairy grama grass is an important forage crop for hoofed wildlife and birds in the American Southwest.