denseflower cordgrass
(Spartina densiflora)
This species is Introduced in the United States
Appearance
Spartina densiflora is perennial aquatic grass. It grows 1-5 ft. (0.3-1.5 m) tall and is native to South America.
Foliage
Leaf (blade) margins in-rolled, 1/8 to 1/3 inches wide at the base. Blade at a 15-35 degree angle to the stem. Internodes firm.
Flowers
The inflorescence narrow, dense, and cylindrical with branches erect and overlapping.
Fruit
Seeds are 0.25-0.4 in. (0.6-1 cm) long and smooth. S. densiflora reproduces by seed and rarely rhizomes.
Ecological Threat
S. densiflora is a nonnative grass species that invades the middle tidal zones in estuaries where it aggressively out competes native grasses, sedges and salicornia stands.
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 densiflora |
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.