Scientific Name
Phalaris aquatica L.
Common Name(s)
Harding grass, bulbous canarygrass
Tribe / Family Name
Poeae
Flowering Period
February to March
Symbol
PHAQ
Description
Harding grass is an invasive, perennial, bunchgrass with short rhizomes. Culms range from 60-200 cm in height and are often swollen at the base. Inflorescences are dense, spike-like panicles 1.5-15 cm long and 1-2.5 cm wide. Spikelets are 2- to 3(5)-flowered (usually with 1 bisexual floret, sometimes with 2) and unawned. Ligules are 2-12 mm long and membranous. Blades up to 15(20) cm long and up to 10 mm wide.
General Info
Harding grass can be found along roadsides, in disturbed areas, and riparian, chaparral, oak woodland, and grassland habitats.
Similar Species
Harding grass can look similar to other canarygrass (Phalaris) species.
Close-up of a dense stand of harding grass. Photo by Justin J. Trujillo.
Close-up of spike-like panicle inflorescence. Photo by Justin J. Trujillo.
Close-up of spike-like panicle inflorescence. Photo by Justin J. Trujillo.
Illustration of Harding grass. Hitchcock, A.S. (rev. A. Chase). 1/1/1950.