Paspalum distichum L., knotgrass 
DESCRIPTION 
Warm-season, rhizomatous, stoloniferous perennial. 
Height: 1 to 2 feet. 
Leaf blade: Flat to V-shaped; tapers to sharp point. 
Stolons: Often pinkish; nodes hairy, usually swollen. 
Seedhead: 2 racemes often curved inward, usually a few long, 
white hairs at fork. 
GROWTH CHARACTERISTICS 
New growth starts in early March in warm parts of range. Foli- 
age stays green until frost. Produces seed several times during late 
spring and summer. Reproduces from rhizomes, stolons, and seed. 
DISTRIBUTION 
Throughout 11 Southern States and along west coast from Cali- 
fornia to Washington and east to Idaho. 
SITE ADAPTATION 
Grows primarily on fresh-water marshes and occasionally on 
brackish marshes. Tolerates moderate salinity and some standing 
water. 
USE AND MANAGEMENT 
Knotgrass is readily grazed by cattle and horses from spring 
until fall. It may increase on wet sites if tall, dominant grasses 
are grazed out. Provides little usable forage during dormant sea- 
son. Seed are choice food for wild ducks on fresh-water marshes. 
This grass withstands heavy grazing. For maximum production, 
no more than 50 percent of current year’s growth by weight should 
be grazed off. Controlled burning is not recommended. Knotgrass 
withstands accidental burning if water is above soil surface. Graz- 
ing deferments of 60 to 90 days every 2 to 3 years during growing 
season increase seed production and improve plant vigor. 
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