Vascular Plants of the Gila Wilderness

Presented in Association with the
Western New Mexico University Department of Natural Sciences

Paspalum distichum Linnaeus
(Knotgrass)


Family: Poaceae

Status: Native

Synonyms:
Paspalum distichumLinnaeus var. indutum Shinners

Paspalum distichum has a distinctive inflorescence that consists of two spikelike branches. The first glume is very inconspicuous. The second glume and lower lemma are variously pubescent, sometimes appearing glabrous. The spikelets are sessile and located on ones side of the branch. Paspalum distichum is member of the Paniceae tribe and has two florets per spikelet, the lower one reduced to just an empty lemma. Paspalum distichum is found beside streams and wet areas.
Please click on an image for a larger file.



Paspalum distichum, photo Russ Kleinman, Burro Mtns., Gila Bird Area, Oct. 25, 2009



Paspalum distichum, plant measured, photo Russ Kleinman, Burro Mtns., Gila Bird Area, Oct. 25, 2009



Paspalum distichum, inflorescence, photo Russ Kleinman, Burro Mtns., Gila Bird Area, Oct. 25, 2009



Paspalum distichum, closeup of leaf, photo Russ Kleinman, Burro Mtns., Gila Bird Area, Oct. 25, 2009



Paspalum distichum, inflorescence branch, photo Russ Kleinman, Burro Mtns., Gila Bird Area, Oct. 25, 2009



Paspalum distichum, macro of spikelet, photo Russ Kleinman, Burro Mtns., Gila Bird Area, Oct. 25, 2009



Paspalum distichum, macro of dissected spikelet, photo Russ Kleinman, Burro Mtns., Gila Bird Area, Oct. 25, 2009



Paspalum distichum, growth habit at Bill Evans Lake where it grows with extensive stolon formation, photo Russ Kleinman, Burro Mtns., Bill Evans Lake, Oct. 29, 2009



Paspalum distichum, extensive stolon formation, photo Russ Kleinman, Burro Mtns., Bill Evans Lake, Oct. 29, 2009



Paspalum distichum, extensive stolon formation over rocks, photo Russ Kleinman, Burro Mtns., Bill Evans Lake, Oct. 29, 2009


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