common cordgrass
(Spartina anglica)
This species is Introduced in the United States
Appearance
Spartina anglica is a perennial rhizomatous grass that can grow from 11.8-51.2 in. (30-130 cm) tall.
Foliage
Leaves are 13.8-17.7 in. (35-45 cm) long, linear, flat, smooth, firm, green-grey in color with a fine apex, pointed tips, and entire margins. Where the leaf meets the sheath is a dense row of hair.
Flowers
Inflorescence is 4.7-15.7 in. (12-40 cm) long with 2-12 spikes that are 5.5-8.3 in. (14-21 cm) long. Flowers are colorless. Flowering periods vary based on the different climates of the plant’s location.
Fruit
Seeds are 0.6-0.8 in. (1.5-2 cm) long. Dozens are made by each flower head and are spread by the wind and tide. S. anglica can also spread through underground stems.
Ecological Threat
Spartina anglica can be found in mudflats, channels, marshes, and even in meadows. It is native to northern Europe.
Selected Images
Maps
EDDMapS Distribution - This map is incomplete and is based only on current site and county level reports made by experts, herbaria, and literature. For more information, visit www.eddmaps.org
State Lists - This map identifies those states that have this species on their invasive species list or law.
Invasive Listing Sources
Taxonomic Rank
| Domain: Eukarya |
| Kingdom: Plantae |
| Phylum: Magnoliophyta |
| Class: Magnoliopsida |
| Superorder: Lilianae |
| Order: Poales |
| Family: Poaceae |
| Genus: Spartina |
| Spartina anglica |
References
Common Name Reference: USDA, NRCS. 2010. The PLANTS Database. National Plant Data Center, Baton Rouge, LA, USA.
Scientific Name Reference: USDA, NRCS. 2010. The PLANTS Database. National Plant Data Center, Baton Rouge, LA, USA.