Johnson Grass

(Sorghum halepense)

Johnson Grass (Sorghum halepense)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Sorghum halepense, commonly known as Johnson grass, is a perennial grass that is native to Asia and Northern Africa. It is typically found in open grasslands, along roadsides, and in agricultural fields where it often becomes a problematic weed. Johnson grass can grow up to 7 feet (2 meters) tall, with broad, lance-shaped leaves and a robust, rhizomatous root system that allows it to spread rapidly and form dense stands.

Johnson grass is valued for its use as forage due to its rapid growth and high biomass production. It is also utilized for erosion control on disturbed soils. However, its aggressive growth habit and ability to spread quickly through both rhizomes and seeds make it a significant weed in crop fields, where it competes for resources and can reduce crop yields. In cultivation, it prefers full sun and can tolerate a range of soil types, although it thrives in moist, fertile soils. It is drought-tolerant once established and can become glyphosate-resistant, making it difficult to control chemically.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Grass
  • Height: 2-11 feet
  • Width: 2-6 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate, Rapid
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

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

Common Uses

Erosion Control

Other Names

Common Names: Johnson Grass, Egyptian Millet, Aleppo Milletgrass, Arabian-Millet, Cuba-Grass, Don Carlos, Evergreen Millet, Great Millet

Scientific Names: , Sorghum halepense, Andropogon anatherus, 1915, Andropogon arundinaceus, Andropogon avenaceus, Andropogon crupina, Andropogon decolorans, Andropogon dubitatus, Andropogon dubius, Andropogon halepense

GBIF Accepted Name: