Dallisgrass

(Paspalum dilatatum)

Dallisgrass (Paspalum dilatatum)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Paspalum dilatatum, commonly known as dallisgrass, is a perennial bunch grass native to the grasslands and open woodlands of Brazil and Argentina. It typically grows decumbent or erect to over 3 feet tall, forming dense clumps. The leaves are mostly hairless, and during the summer months, it produces an inflorescence with branches lined with green to purple spikelets. The flowers are not particularly showy, but they are notable for their purplish hue when young.

Dallisgrass is valued for its use as forage due to its high productivity and palatability to livestock. It thrives in full sun and can tolerate a range of soil types, although it prefers moist, fertile soils. It is often found in pastures, along roadsides, and in disturbed areas. However, its aggressive growth and ability to form dense stands make it a problematic invasive species outside its native range, particularly in the southern United States, southern Europe, Africa, Australia, and New Zealand. In cultivation, it requires minimal maintenance once established but can be difficult to eradicate due to its persistent nature and tendency to reseed.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Grass
  • Height: 2-4.9 feet
  • Width: 1-1.6 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate, Rapid
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: High
  • Drainage: Medium, Slow

Common Uses

Erosion Control

Natural Habitat

Grasslands and open woodlands of Brazil and Argentina

Other Names

Common Names: Sticky Heads, Caterpillar Grass, Dallas Grass, Water Grass

Scientific Names: , Paspalum dilatatum, Digitaria dilatata, Panicum platense, Paspalum dilatatum f. paucispica, Paspalum dilatatum subsp. decumbens, Paspalum dilatatum subsp. dilatatum, Paspalum dilatatum subsp. flavescens, Paspalum dilatatum subsp. paucispica, Paspalum dilatatum subsp. sacchariferum

GBIF Accepted Name: