Eleusine indica, commonly known as Indian goosegrass or crowfootgrass, is a small annual grass native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa and Asia. It has adapted to a wide range of disturbed habitats including agricultural land, roadsides, and urban areas. Typically found in open, sunny environments, it thrives in compacted soils where few other plants can establish. This grass is characterized by its flat, spreading habit and can reach heights of up to 2 feet (60 cm), though it is often shorter.

Indian goosegrass is notable for its ability to perform C4 photosynthesis, which makes it highly efficient in hot, sunny climates. It is a common weed in cultivated crops, lawns, and golf courses, where it competes with desirable species for space and nutrients. Despite its invasive nature, it is sometimes used for erosion control due to its fast growth and extensive root system. In cultivation, it requires full sun and can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions, but prefers disturbed, compacted soils. It can set seed prolifically, even when closely mown, contributing to its invasive potential. Gardeners should be cautious about introducing it to new areas, as it can become a problematic weed.CC BY-SA 4.0