Status: Native
Synonyms:
None
Panicum hirticaule is a rather small and inconspicuous erect annual grass in the Gila National Forest, but it can form large stands in the Sonoran Desert. It is an erect hot weather grass with weak roots and spreading bulbous based hairs on the leaf sheaths and stems. The spikelets are notable for the first glume being more than half the length of the spikelet which is in turn less than 4mm long. The upper floret is ovoid and has two scars at the base but does not have large wings at the base. The palea of the lower floret is poorly developed. Panicum hirticaule is found at lower elevation in canyons where there is seasonal water.
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Panicum hirticaule, photo Russ Kleinman & Richard Felger, Sycamore Canyon near Cliff, November 8, 2009
Panicum hirticaule, whole plant measured (note weak root system and open panicle), photo Russ Kleinman & Richard Felger, Sycamore Canyon near Cliff, November 8, 2009
Panicum hirticaule, first glume more than half the length of the floret and acute at the tip, photo Russ Kleinman & Richard Felger, Sycamore Canyon near Cliff, November 8, 2009
Panicum hirticaule, spikelet, photo Russ Kleinman & Richard Felger, Sycamore Canyon near Cliff, November 8, 2009
Panicum hirticaule, ovoid upper floret with two small scars at the base, photo Russ Kleinman & Richard Felger, Sycamore Canyon near Cliff, November 8, 2009
Panicum hirticaule, bulbous based hairs on leaf and spreading hairs on stem, photo Russ Kleinman & Richard Felger, Sycamore Canyon near Cliff, November 8, 2009
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