Volunteer Opportunity: Serve as a Budget Committee Member. 1-2 meetings/yr, 3 yr term. Apply now>>>

Native Plant Sale: Order Now>>>

Spike Bentgrass

Agrostis exarata

Plant Description

Spike bentgrass, also known as spike redtop and western bentgrass, is a medium textured, cool season, perennial bunchgrass with a dense, spike-like flower head (panicle). The stems (culms) are slender and erect, usually 50 to 100 (150) cm tall. The leaf blades are 2 to 20 mm wide, 5 to 20 cm long, and harsh to the touch. This species contains considerable variability, from dwarf alpine forms to taller, more robust specimens along the seacoast.

The species produces large quantities of tiny seeds with good retention that are easy to harvest or collect. It is usually not found in large pure stands, but occurs as scattered individuals or small colonies across a landscape. It is usually not found in large pure stands, but occurs as scattered individuals or small colonies across a landscape.

Plant Details

Life Forms
Habitats
Soil and Moisture Conditions
Special Uses
Shade Preference
Mature Height 1.5'-3'
Distribution Spike bentgrass is relatively common is western Oregon, western Washington, and California. It can be locally abundant on moist sites throughout the western states.
More Info
© Marion Soil and Water Conservation District. All Rights Reserved.