Matgrass (Nardus stricta)
ODA rating: A
Description
Matgrass is a slow growing perennial bunchgrass that is densely tufted, and long-lived. It produces unbranched flower-spikes that carry the single-flowered spikelets along one side only. Leaves are hard and bristle-like, bluish green and up to 1/4 inch wide, appearing narrower because blades are tightly folded along the midrib. Stem tipped by inconspicuous spikes that bear all spikelets on one side of the stems and grows up to eight inches tall. This grass is tightly rooted therefore hard to remove.
Impacts
Matgrass is an uncommon non-native grass with the potential to out-compete desirable grasses in intensively grazed areas. Because it is a species of low palatability it is not favored by grazing animals, giving matgrass a competitive edge. It is difficult to eliminate because of the difficulty locating it in mixed grass stands. Untreated plants develop seeds and perpetuate infestations for decades. It occurs in damp areas near swamps, estuaries and watercourses. Generally found in seasonally saturated mountain meadows.
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Images courtesy of Bob Barratt, Oregon Department of Agriculture
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If images are downloaded and used from the ODA web site please be sure to credit the photographer.
Introduction
Native to eastern Europe. It reproduces mostly through transport of tufts in mud clinging to the hooves of grazing animals.
Distribution in Oregon
One Oregon population is known to occur in Klamath County. The first report of this plant in Oregon was 1962 at Fort Klamath.
Map legend
Yellow: limited distribution in county
Red: abundant in county
Grey: not known to be present in county
Biological controls
Biological control agents are not used on "A" listed weeds in Oregon. This weed is being managed for eradication or containment.
Informational Links
WeedMapper
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