GROWTH TRAITS: Perennial bunchgrass growing 8-13’ (2.4-4 m) tall from a densely fibrous root system. Leaves are basal and also distributed up the stem to the bottom of the inflorescence. Leaves have serrated margins, a thick, white midvein on the upper sides of blades, and can be 1.6-3.3' (0.5-1 m) long and 0.5” (1.2 cm) wide. Leaf bases are unlobed and are densely covered with long, fuzzy hairs that typically hide the ligule. Dense flower plumes are purplish (maturing to silver to tan), up to 2’ (0.6 m) long, and bloom from July through October. Florets are covered in tufts of silky hairs, giving the inflorescence an overall fluffy appearance.