Rice Cutgrass

(Leersia oryziodes)

Rice Cutgrass (Leersia oryziodes)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Leersia oryziodes, commonly known as Rice Cutgrass or White Grass, is a perennial grass that is native to a variety of wet habitats including marshes, wet meadows, and along the edges of streams and rivers in North America and East Asia. It typically grows at a moderate rate to a height of 1.5-3 feet (0.46-0.9 meters) and has a spreading habit that can form dense colonies. The plant features flat, rough-textured leaves and produces green or white flowers that are generally inconspicuous, blooming in the summer and fall. The flowers are not particularly showy, but they do provide ecological benefits by supporting wetland wildlife.

Rice Cutgrass is valued for its ability to stabilize soil and prevent erosion, especially in riparian zones. It is often used in restoration projects and naturalized areas where its high water requirement is naturally met. This grass thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers very slow or slow draining clay or loam soils. It is tolerant of flooding and can be used to vegetate areas with fluctuating water levels. While not commonly used in ornamental horticulture, it can be a practical choice for wetland gardens or naturalized landscapes. Gardeners should be aware that Rice Cutgrass can have sharp leaf edges that may cause skin irritation upon handling.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Grass
  • Height: 1.5-3 feet
  • Width: 2-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: High, Aquatic
  • Drainage: Standing, Slow

Common Uses

Erosion Control, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

Native to marshes, wet meadows, and stream and river edges in North America and East Asia

Other Names

Common Names: White Cutgrass, White Grass

Scientific Names: , Leersia oryziodes,

GBIF Accepted Name: