Imperata cylindrica
Non-Native
USDA, NRCS. 2018. The PLANTS Database (http://plants.usda.gov, 28 March 2018). National Plant Data Team, Greensboro, NC 27401-4901 USA.
What is Cogongrass?
Physical Characteristics
Leaves:
- Young leaves are light green
- Turn orange-brown in color with age
- Bunches vary in tightness
- 1-4 feet long
- 0.5 -0.75 inches wide
- Grow from the ground
- Noticeable white, off-center midrib
- Edges are serrated
Fruit:
- Fluffy
- White
Seeds:
- Found mostly in the spring
- Very small
- Attached to fluffy, white piece
Stem:
- Leaves grow from rhizome
- Spread from rhizomes
- Rhizome can be up to 4 feet under ground
- Most rhizomes stay within the top 6 inches of the soil
Where Does it Grow?
Non-Native
Cogongrass is native to Southeast Asia. It can be found along the side of roads and in ditches.
Is it Invasive?
Cogongrass is non-native to the United States, and it can be an aggressive invader that can cover large portions of land. It tends to disrupt the ecosystem by pushing the native species out of their habitat.
This plant is not native to North America, but has naturalized in much of the United States. While it is not illegal to possess this plant in Texas, it should not be introduced into new water bodies and should be treated with herbicide when present.