Sorghastrum secundum (Ell.) Nash, lopsided indiangrass 
DESCRIPTION 
Warm-season, perennial bunch grass. 
Height: 3 to 6 feet. 
Leaf blade: Flat; 1/4 to 1/2 inch wide; 12 to 24 inches long. 
Leaf sheath: Rounded. 
Ligule: Membrane 1/4 to 1/2 inch long, pointed. 
Seedhead: Panicle narrow, golden brown; one-sided, giving 
it the name lopsided indiangrass. 
GROWTH CHARACTERISTICS 
In south Florida, growth starts by mid-January; in the north- 
ern part of range by mid-March or early April. Most of leaf 
growth is in April, May, and June. Seedstalks appear during July 
or August and seedheads in September. Seed mature during Octo- 
ber. Little, if any, new growth occurs after seed form. 
DISTRIBUTION 
Florida, southern Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, and south- 
east Texas. 
SITE ADAPTATION 
Adapted to well-drained soils. Does not grow on poorly drained 
sites or on sites subject to standing water. 
USE AND MANAGEMENT 
Lopsided indiangrass is readily eaten by all livestock during 
growing season. It cures well on stem and provides good dry for- 
age during winter. 
On ranges in good condition, this grass contributes as much as 
15 percent of total production. To increase it on ranges in poor 
and fair condition, complete growing-season grazing deferments 
every 2 to 3 years are required. 
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