Common Carpetgrass

(Axonopus fissifolius)

Common Carpetgrass (Axonopus fissifolius)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Axonopus fissifolius, commonly known as Common Carpetgrass or Louisiana Grass, is a perennial grass native to the southeastern United States and tropical America. It is often found in moist, open areas such as wet meadows, floodplains, and the margins of water bodies. This grass typically forms a dense, mat-like ground cover, reaching a height of 6-12 inches (15-30 cm). It has a creeping growth habit with flat, wide leaves that are a light green color. Common Carpetgrass is not known for showy flowers; instead, it produces inconspicuous inflorescences during the summer months.

Common Carpetgrass is valued for its ability to form a thick carpet of grass, which is useful for erosion control and as a low-maintenance ground cover in warm climates. It is often used in lawns, parks, and pastures, especially in areas with poor drainage. This grass prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate a wide range of soil types, though it thrives in moist, fertile soils. It is relatively drought-tolerant once established but performs best with regular watering. While it is not typically plagued by serious pests or diseases, it can become invasive in some areas outside its native range due to its aggressive growth.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Grass
  • Height: 0.5-1.75 feet
  • Width: 2-2.5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Erosion Control, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Moist, open areas such as wet meadows, floodplains, and the margins of water bodies in the southeastern United States and tropical America

Other Names

Common Names: Carpet Grass, Narrowleaf Carpetgrass, Louisiana Grass, Caratao Grass, Lei Ditan Cao, Mat Grass, Narrowleaved Carpetgrass

Scientific Names: , Axonopus fissifolius, Axonopus affinis, Axonopus ater, Axonopus compressus, Axonopus compressus subsp. affinis, Axonopus compressus var. affinis, Axonopus fissifolius, Axonopus fissifolius subsp. coronatus, Axonopus fissifolius var. coronatus

GBIF Accepted Name: