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Extension

Common Name: Tall Dropseed
Species Name:  Sporobolus compositus
Plant Type: Grasses & Grass-like
Family Name: Poaceae, Grass family

 
Plant Facts 
OriginNative
DurationPerennial
SeasonWarm
Distribution in the U.S.Throughout the country other than the extreme southeast and far west
Distribution in OklahomaThroughout the state

ID Characteristics

  • Field Identification Characteristics

    Vegetative

    • Sheath partially surrounding seed head
    • Seed head narrow and vertical
    • Spikelets noted for bird beak appearance at tip

    Floral

    • Dropping leaves thin, “wiry” leaf tips
  • Leaf and Stem Characteristics
    • Plant Height: 25-200 centimeters
    • Ligule Type: Ciliate membranous
    • Sheath: Glabrous
    • Leaves: Basal and cauline
  • Floral Characteristics
    • Inflorescence Type: Panicles
    • Florets Per Spikelet: 1
    • Glumes: Unequal
 
Habitat/Ecology 
Soil TypeClay
HabitatWet and dry prairies, glades and dry open woods
Successional StageMid to late