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fringed windmill grass

Scientific Name: Chloris ciliata

Family: Poaceae

Category: Monocot

Growth: Graminoid

Duration: Annual, Perennial

Other Names:

       

Fringed Windmill Grass (Chloris ciliata)

Chloris is a widespread genus of plants in the grass family (Poaceae), commonly known as windmill grass or finger grass. This entry focuses on Chloris ciliata, known as fringed windmill grass.

Considerations for Pets and Children

  • This grass has small parts that could pose a potential choking hazard for pets or young children.
  • The ligule is described as a fringed membrane or a fringe of hairs.

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

  • Scientific Name: Chloris ciliata Sw.
  • Common Names: fringed windmill grass, windmill grass, finger grass
  • Genus: Chloris Sw.
  • Family: Poaceae (grass family)
  • Synonyms: Andropogon pubescens Aiton, Chloris brachyathera (Hack. ex Parodi) Herter
  • Related ITIS Name: Chloris ciliata

Distribution and Habitat

Chloris is a widespread genus found worldwide.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Chloris ciliata is an annual graminoid, meaning it completes its life cycle in one year.
  • It is named for its unusual windmill-like appearance.

Ecological Role

Windmill grass can be a weedy species that can be a problem in lawns. Windmill grass control is often necessary, as this is a prolific grower.

Tolerance to Temperature

The fringed windmill grass can bear temperatures a few degrees below zero.

Further Information

  • Discover Life provides a page about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Chloris ciliata.
  • Hitchcock, A.S. (rev. A. Chase). 1950. Manual of the grasses of the United States. Washington, DC.