Andropogon virginicus facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Andropogon virginicus |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Andropogon
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| Species: |
virginicus
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Andropogon virginicus is a type of grass that grows in many places. People call it by different names. Some common names are broomsedge bluestem and yellowsedge bluestem. In Australia, it is sometimes called whiskey grass. This is because it arrived there as packaging for American whiskey bottles.
This grass is originally from the southeastern United States. It grows as far north as the Great Lakes. It has also spread to other places like California and Hawaii. In these new areas, it can become a problematic weed.
Invasive Grass
Andropogon virginicus has also spread to Japan and Australia. When a plant spreads to a new area and causes harm, it is called an invasive species. This grass competes with other plants in a special way. It releases chemicals from its dying leaves and stems. These chemicals can stop other plants from growing nearby. This process is called allelopathy.
This grass often grows in places where the ground has been disturbed. For example, it can take over abandoned mining sites. It can also become a problem in pastures where animals graze. It is not as tasty or nutritious for cattle as other grasses. This means it can reduce the quality of grazing land.
Andropogon virginicus can survive fires well. After a fire, it grows back quickly and often becomes even more common. In Hawaii, this grass causes a special problem. It goes dormant (rests) during Hawaii's rainy season. When it dies back, the ground it covers is left bare. This can lead to serious erosion on hillsides. Even though it can be a weed, some people grow this grass as an ornamental plant because of its interesting colors.
This species is now considered invasive in New Caledonia. It is even mentioned in their laws.
How it Grows
Andropogon virginicus is a perennial grass. This means it lives for more than two years. It forms narrow groups of stems. These stems can grow to be over a meter (about 3 feet 3 inches) tall.
When the stems and leaves are new, they are green. As they get older, they change color. They can turn purplish, then orange, and finally a straw-like yellow. This grass makes many tiny seeds. These seeds are light enough to be carried and spread by the wind.
Andropogon virginicus can grow well in many different types of places. It produces a lot of seeds. A high number of these seeds sprout and grow into new plants. The young plants also have a good chance of surviving. This grass can even grow well in poor soils.
See also
In Spanish: Andropogon virginicus para niños
