Lolium perenne

Spikelets alternate on spike protruding from spike at 45 degree angle. Tuft of white hairs at point of attachment of spikelets. Membranous ligule. Look alikes: L. multiflorum – awn on lema and no hairs, L. tomulantum large bract subtending each spiklet and exceeding it in length.

Commercial seeds have a purity of 98%, a germination rate of 90% and there are about 227,000 seeds/lbs. The seeds should be planted in the fall at a rate of 25-35 lbs/acre (USDA 1948).

Wildlife use of this grass is considered negligible except in California. It is unclear if how well researched the plant is in other areas (Martin et al. 1951). It is planted in pastures where Geese feed on it at south Louisiana Wildlife Refuges.

A native of Europe that is now naturalized nearly throughout the United States. It has been suggested as a fuel species that might be added to seed mixes for restoration. It burns well and is not a vigorous reseeder. Many believe it to be allelopathic.

Lawns, old fields, disturbed areas.