SafePlants

Jointed Goatgrass (Aegilops cylindrica)

Aegilops cylindrica, commonly known as jointed goatgrass, is an annual grass that belongs to the tribe Triticeae, a group that also includes wheat and other cereals.

Considerations for Pets and Children

• This plant is an annual grass and can grow up to 4 feet (1.2 meters) in height.
• It reproduces via seeds.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Aegilops cylindrica Host.
• Common Names: Jointed Goatgrass, Goatgrass, Jointgrass
• Family: Poaceae (Grass family)
• Synonym: Aegilops triuncialis L. barb goatgrass (mentioned alongside Jointed goatgrass)

Distribution and Habitat

• Jointed goatgrass is native to southeast Europe and western Asia.
• It was introduced to North America in the late 1800s, potentially as a contaminant in wheat.
• It is now found in all major United States winter wheat production regions, from Texas to South Dakota and eastern Montana, and in all western states.
• Also present in Canada, although its introduction there was not recorded until later.

Ecological Role

• Jointed goatgrass is considered an invasive plant in many regions.
• It competes with crops for water and nutrients, reducing the quality and yield of wheat and other crops.
• It can hybridize with winter wheat, further complicating its management.

Morphological Characteristics

• It is a winter annual grass, vegetatively similar to wheat in the seed stage.
• Mature plants can reach 15-30 inches tall, or even up to 4 ft. (1.2 m) in height.
• The leaves are alternately arranged, up to 0.5 inches (1.2 cm) wide, with auricles at their base.
• It has erect stems or tillers.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Jointed goatgrass can hybridize with winter wheat.
• It competes with crops like wheat for resources.

Additional Resources

• USDA APHIS PPQ Archive, USDA APHIS PPQ, Bugwood.org
• Colorado Natural Areas Program
• University of Idaho - Idaho Weed Resces - Jointed Goatgrass Idaho One Plan - Jointed Goatgrass