Japanese Silvergrass, Chinese Silvergrass, Pampas Grass, Amur Silvergrass

Growth Form:  Grass

General:   Composed chiefly of two species, M. sacchariflorus and M. sinensis, that are difficult for novices to distinguish. Perennial, often tall, 3-9 ft. tall reed-like grass, growing in clumps or spreading to form dense patches. Composed of

Flowers:   September and October, forming feathery plume that may be reddish, silvery, white or pinkish, depending on the species, and persists through winter.

Fruits and Seeds:  

Leaves:   10 - 20 in. arching leaves, silver-gray to bluish-green and may have white-cream colored horizontal bands and white mid-rib on leaves.

Stems or Branches:  

Threatens:   Riparian corridors, wetlands, prairies, savannas, glades and barrens depending upon the species.

Look-Alikes:   Indian Grass (Sorgastrum natans), native, inflorescence bronze colored.

Distribution:   Native to E Asia, introduced to all eastern states, CO, CA.

Other Links:  

http://www.invasive.org/browse/subject.cfm?sub=3052
http://www.forestryimages.org/browse/subimages.cfm?SUB=3052