Achnatherum robustum

Achnatherum robustum

Species of grass

Achnatherum robustum, commonly known as sleepygrass, is a species of grass in the family Poaceae. It is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. This perennial bunchgrass is notable for its robust growth and its association with endophytic fungi that can produce alkaloids with sedative effects.

Description

Achnatherum robustum is a perennial bunchgrass that can grow to a height of 1 to 1.5 meters. The leaves are long and narrow, typically measuring 30 to 60 centimeters in length. The inflorescence is a panicle, which can be up to 30 centimeters long, with spikelets that are 1 to 2 centimeters in length. The spikelets contain one floret each, and the lemma is awned, with the awn being twisted and bent.

Distribution and habitat

This species is found in the southwestern United States, including Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado, and Texas, as well as in northern Mexico. It typically grows in dry, open areas such as grasslands, woodlands, and rocky slopes. Achnatherum robustum is adapted to a range of soil types but prefers well-drained soils.

Ecology

Achnatherum robustum is known for its symbiotic relationship with endophytic fungi, particularly those in the genus Neotyphodium. These fungi can produce alkaloids that have sedative effects on animals that consume the grass, leading to its common name "sleepygrass." This relationship is thought to provide the grass with a defense mechanism against herbivory.

Uses

While Achnatherum robustum is not widely used in agriculture due to its sedative properties, it is sometimes used in restoration ecology projects to stabilize soils and restore native grasslands. Its ability to grow in poor soils and its drought tolerance make it a useful species for such purposes.

Gallery

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  Achnatherum robustum illustration

Related pages

• Poaceae
• Endophytic fungi
• Grassland
• Symbiosis

Achnatherum robustum

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