Eragrostis spectabilis

Eragrostis spectabilis may be confused with Muhlenbergia capillaris which has one floret at the end of each rachis while E. spectabilis has many. Members of the genus Eragrostis also usually have wider leaves. Eragrostis refracta and E. elliottii are very similar to E. spectabilis but have panicles that are green to dark gray with delicate branches. Eragrostis spectabilis has a bright purple panicle with relatively stiff branches. The spikelets of Eragrostis refracta are sessile on the panicle branches, while those of E. elliottii are borne on long capillary pedicels (Grelen and Hughes. 1984).

No treatment is required for good seed germination (Steffen 1997). Seeds average approximately 3,900,000/lb.

In the spring, purple lovegrass foliage is palatable and nutritious.

Found throughout eastern United States west to Arizona. Palatable to cattle until the emergence of the inflorescence in late summer.

Dry to moist pastures, railroads, waste grounds, sandy fields and roadsides, pastures, and open woods.