Scientific Name
Agrostis avenacea J.F. Gmel. (Synonyms: Agrostis retrofracta, Lachnagrostis filiformis)
Common Name(s)
Pacific bentgrass, New Zealand wind grass, fairy grass
Tribe / Family Name
Poeae
Flowering Period
June to July
Symbol
AGAV
Description
Pacific bentgrass is an introduced, perennial bunchgrass (sometimes rhizomatous). Culms range from 15-65 cm in height, usually erect but occasionally geniculate at the base. Inflorescences are narrow to open, diffuse panicles 7-30 cm long and (2)5-25 cm wide. Spikelets are small, 1-flowered, and awned (awns 4-7.5 mm long and attached below lemma tips). Ligules are up to 8 mm long and membranous. Blades are 8-20 cm long and 1-3 mm wide.
General Info
Pacific bentgrass is known to outcompete native vegetation and is considered invasive in vernal pool habitats within San Diego County.
Similar Species
Pacific bentgrass can look similar to other bentgrass (Agrostis) species.
Similar Species Links
Creeping bentgrass, redtop bentgrassClose-up image of immature inflorescence. During this stage of growth, the inflorescence is a narrow panicle and has not fully developed yet. Photo by Justin J. Trujillo.
Close-up image of mature inflorescence. At this stage of growth, the inflorescence has developed into an open, diffuse panicle. Photo by Justin J. Trujillo.
Close-up image of spikelet. Photo by Justin J. Trujillo.
Close-up image of membranous ligule. Photo by Justin J. Trujillo.
Illustration of Pacific bentgrass. Hitchcock, A.S. (rev. A. Chase). 1/1/1950.
Distribution map of Pacific bentgrass. USDA PLANTS Database, 2022.