Buffalo grass facts for kids

Buffalo grass is a common name used for several different types of grass. People often call these grasses "buffalo grass" because they might have been eaten by buffalo in the past, or because of how they look or grow. It's a bit like how different types of apples all have "apple" in their name!

What is Buffalo Grass?

Buffalo grass isn't just one plant. It's a name given to several different kinds of grasses found around the world. These grasses often share some common features, like being tough and able to grow in different conditions.

North American Buffalograss

One of the most famous types is Bouteloua dactyloides, often spelled as buffalograss (one word). This grass is native to the Great Plains of North America. It's known for being very strong and can handle dry weather well.

• Where it grows: You can find this buffalograss naturally in the central United States and parts of Mexico. It's a key part of the prairie ecosystem.
• Why it's special: It's a short grass that forms a dense, soft lawn. Because it needs very little water, it's a popular choice for lawns in dry areas. It also doesn't need much mowing!
• History: This grass was a main food source for huge herds of American bison, which is how it got its name.

Other Grasses Called Buffalo Grass

Many other grasses are also known as "buffalo grass" in different parts of the world.

• Sweet Vernal Grass (Anthoxanthum odoratum): This grass is known for its sweet smell, especially when it's cut or dried. It's found in many parts of the world, including Europe and Asia.
• St. Augustine Grass (Stenotaphrum secundatum): This is a popular lawn grass in warm, humid places like the southern United States and Australia. It forms a thick, green carpet.
• Carabao Grass (Paspalum conjugatum): Found in tropical and subtropical regions, this grass is often eaten by animals like carabao (water buffalo) in the Philippines, which gives it its name.
• Guinea Grass (Panicum maximum): Sometimes called buffalograss, this tall grass is very important for feeding livestock in tropical areas.

Why are Common Names Confusing?

Using common names like "buffalo grass" can sometimes be a bit confusing because different plants can share the same name. This is why scientists use scientific names (like Bouteloua dactyloides) which are unique to each plant. This helps everyone know exactly which plant they are talking about, no matter where they are in the world!

See Also

• Cenchrus ciliaris, a grass species also known as "buffel grass"