Polypogon monspeliensis

Rabbit-foot grass

Nonnative to Florida

Species Overview

Native to: Europe, Asia, and northern Africa

Rabbit-foot grass likely arrived in the United States as a contaminate of hay, straw bedding, packing materials, agricultural seed, etc. and possibly intentionally for ornamental plantings. It can now be found across much of North America. In Florida it can occasionally be found in disturbed sites with moist soil.

Species Characteristics

Family: Poaceae

Habit: Annual grass

Stem: Tufted, erect, to 2 ft. tall, often bent at nodes in lower stem.

Leaves: Blades flat, fine-lined, rough to touch, to 10 in. long, to 1/2 in. wide; ligules thin, to 1/2 in. long.

Flowers: Inflorescence at stem tip, resembles rabbit’s foot, very soft, bristly, 2-6 in. long, to 2 in. wide. spikelets many, with long, soft bristles.

Distribution in Florida: Throughout the state, but generally absent or unreported from the southeastern region from Indian River to Broward counties.

Impacts

Each plant may produce over 100 seeds which can be spread by water and wind as well as wildlife – birds consume seed and seed may hitchhike on animal fur. Seeds remain viable in the soil for 1 to 5 years (NatureServe, 2012). While it hasn’t yet become highly problematic in Florida, it has been documented in other areas to create dense monotypic stands excluding native vegetation and lowering biodiversity.

Control Methods

Preventive Measures

Clean all clothing and equipment after working or recreating in infested areas.

Cultural/Physical

Small infestations can be successfully dug out if done before plants have gone to seed.

Mechanical

.

Biological

None known.

Chemical

Likely to be effectively controlled by most grass-killing herbicides. Consult your local UF IFAS Extension Office for management recommendations.

Learn more about this species

Atlas of Florida Plants

EDDMapS

USDA Plant Database

Invasive Species Compendium

Flora of North America

CAL-IPC Plant Profile