Crowsfoot grass
Eleusine indica
Eleusine indica, commonly known as goosegrass or wiregrass, is a widespread and common annual grass that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is found in various habitats, including lawns, fields, gardens, and disturbed areas. Here's a detailed description:
Botanical Description:
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Habit:
- Goosegrass is an annual grass with a prostrate or spreading growth habit. It often forms dense mats, especially in areas with compacted soil.
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Leaves:
- The leaves are linear, typically about 5-20 cm long, and have a distinctive pale-green color.
- Leaf blades are flat and can be either hairless or slightly hairy.
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Inflorescence:
- The inflorescence is a digitate or finger-like arrangement, consisting of several spike-like branches radiating from a central point.
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Spikelets:
- The spikelets are small and compressed, containing several florets.
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Flowering:
- Goosegrass flowers throughout the warm season, producing seeds that contribute to its prolific spread.
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Roots:
- The plant has a fibrous root system.
Identification Tips:
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Growth Form:
- Goosegrass is characterized by its low-growing, spreading habit, forming a rosette of leaves close to the ground.
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Leaf Arrangement:
- The linear leaves radiate from the base, and the plant often appears as a circular mat.
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Seedheads:
- The distinctive digitate seedheads with spike-like branches are a key identification feature.
Ecological Role:
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Adaptability:
- Goosegrass is highly adaptable and can thrive in a variety of soil types, including compacted and disturbed soils.
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Weed Competitor:
- It competes well with other plants and can become invasive, especially in lawns and areas with poor soil conditions.
Management and Control:
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Cultural Practices:
- Regular mowing can help control the height of goosegrass and prevent it from forming dense mats.
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Hand Removal:
- Hand-pulling or hoeing can be effective for small infestations, but it's essential to remove the entire plant to prevent regrowth.
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Herbicides:
- Selective herbicides designed for grass control in broadleaf plants can be used. Always follow recommended application rates and guidelines.
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Improving Lawn Health:
- Promoting a healthy and well-fertilized lawn can help suppress the growth of goosegrass.
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Mulching:
- Mulching garden beds can help suppress the growth of goosegrass and reduce its establishment.
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Prevention:
- Preventing soil compaction and promoting proper lawn care practices can help minimize goosegrass infestations.












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