Grass originally growing on roadside midway between Lexington and Saluda SC. It has now spread across the fence to my field, and I would like to know if it is undesirable before it spreads further. Seems to prefer full sun, damper areas. Soil is silt loam over clay. Photos taken Oct 23 2021.
Hi James,
this grass is called Andropogon glomeratus, or bushy bluestem. It is a grass that is native and that likes soil disturbance in full sun. It is a wildlife food source. Now that you know the name you can find out more about it. I don’t think it is considered to be a pest grass, but I suppose it depends on who you talk to. It is a close relative of the common grass called broom sedge, Andropogon virginicus.
Sincerely,
Dr. Steven R. Hill, Botanist, SCNPS