SafePlants

Rothrock's Grama (Bouteloua rothrockii)

Rothrock's Grama is a short-lived perennial grass, scientifically known as Bouteloua rothrockii. It's also referred to as Rothrock grama and Rothrok grama, with "navajita liebrero" being a Spanish name.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature:

• Scientific Name: Bouteloua rothrockii Vasey
• Family: Poaceae (Grass family)
• Kingdom: Plantae
• Synonyms:
  • Bouteloua barbata var. rothrockii
  • Bouteloua barbata

Distribution and Habitat:

• Rothrock's Grama is native to the Western Plains and Intermountain States.
• It is found in locations such as Millville, Cochise County, and Arizona, specifically in Southeastern Arizona grasslands and the Arizona/New Mexico Plateau.
• It is also present in Petrified Forest National Park.

Morphological Characteristics:

• It is a short-lived perennial bunchgrass.
• The grass has branched stems, distinguishing it from Sixweeks grama.
• The plant can grow up to approximately a meter in height.
• It features tall spikes with 4 to 7 feather-like side branches.
• The leaves are typically present, arranged in a sheathing manner, with a simple, grass-like format.

Ecological Role:

• Rothrock's Grama can act as an increaser in certain environments.

Quirky Facts

• The abundance of Rothrock's Grama can vary significantly depending on weather events. For instance, its presence was notably increased after Tropical Storm Norbert.

Allergy Information:

• Rothrock's Grama flowers from August to October and may be a source of allergens in the Southwestern United States.