Scientific Name
Piptatherum miliaceum (L.) Coss.
Common Name(s)
Smilograss
Tribe / Family Name
Stipeae
Flowering Period
March to September
Symbol
PIMI3
Description
Smilo grass is an introduced perennial bunchgrass. Culms 40-150 cm in height and commonly widely spreading. Inflorescences open, wispy, drooping panicles 10-40 cm long with many branches distantly whorled. Spikelets up to 3 mm long, 1-flowered, and awned (awns up to 4 mm long, straight, and early deciduous). Ligules up to 2.5 mm long, membranous, and truncate. Blades 5-30 cm long, up 10 mm wide, flat, and smooth on both surfaces.
General Info
Smilo grass is considered good forage for grazing animals and has been used for erosion control. It can be found along roadsides, creeks, and in open disturbed fields and vacant lots.
Similar Species
Smilo grass is distinctive and not usually confused with other grass species. However, when comparing it to other grasses in the field, remember to inspect its nodding, delicate inflorescences and bamboo-like stems.
Picture of growth habit. Photo by Justin J. Trujillo.
Close-up image of panicle inflorescence. Photo by Justin J. Trujillo.
Close-up image of membranous ligule. Photo by Justin J. Trujillo.
Illustration of smilograss. Hitchcock, A.S. (rev. A. Chase). 1/1/1950.
Distribution map of smilograss. USDA PLANTS Database, 2022.