Blown grass

Agrostis avenacea

Description:

  • Habitat: Pacific bentgrass is commonly found in a variety of habitats, ranging from moist meadows to drier slopes. It is adaptable to different soil types.

  • Growth Form: This grass typically grows in tufts or clumps, with stems reaching heights of 30 to 80 cm. It has a bunchgrass growth habit.

  • Leaves: The leaves are narrow, linear, and often have a slightly drooping or lax appearance. They are typically green and can have a fine texture.

  • Inflorescence: The flowering head is an open, spreading panicle. The panicle branches bear spikelets with florets.

  • Flowers: The flowers are small and typically have an awn, a bristle-like extension, at the tip of each lemma.

  • Seeds: The seeds are small and are produced in abundance.

Identification Features:

  1. Bunchgrass Growth: Pacific bentgrass forms tufts or clumps, characteristic of a bunchgrass growth habit.

  2. Open Panicle: The flowering head is an open, spreading panicle.

  3. Narrow Leaves: The leaves are narrow and linear, giving the plant a fine-textured appearance.

Ecological Role:

  • Pacific bentgrass is an important component of grassland ecosystems and provides forage for various wildlife species.

Cultural Uses:

  • While not widely cultivated, Pacific bentgrass can contribute to revegetation efforts in ecological restoration projects.