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ferngrass

Scientific Name: Catapodium rigidum

Family: Poaceae

Category: Monocot

Growth: Graminoid

Duration: Annual

Other Names:

       

Catapodium rigidum: Fern-grass

Fern-grass, scientifically known as Catapodium rigidum, is a small grass that is often overlooked.

Considerations for Pets

  • Fern grass has a rigid stem and spikelets, which could pose a risk if ingested by pets.

Considerations for Children

  • Fern grass has a rigid stem and spikelets, which could pose a risk if handled by children.

Synonyms

  • Desmazeria rigida

Distribution and Habitat

  • Fern-grass is commonly found in coastal sites, particularly in Wales and the northeast and west of Britain.
  • It is native to Europe and western Asia.
  • It has scattered occurrences in North America, including New England.

Morphological Characteristics

  • Fern grass has a rigid stem.
  • It features spikelets, often with a purplish tinge.
  • It typically grows up to 20 cm tall.

Ecological Role

  • Sea fern-grass grows in open, sunny brackish soils that are moderately rich in nutrients.
  • It is found in transition zones between salt marsh and dunes, sea dikes, and rocky coasts.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • Extracts of fern and grass have shown allelopathic inhibition of black cherry.

Further Information

  • Additional information can be found on the RHS (Royal Horticultural Society) website.