Dallis Grass (Paspalum dilatatum): A Robust Pasture Grass with Sticky Seed Heads

Dallis Grass, Paspalum dilatatum, is a perennial grass native to South America but widely naturalized in warm regions worldwide. It is a valuable pasture grass but can be a weed in turf and crops.

Identification

This grass forms loose bunches with erect stems 3–5 feet tall. The leaves are broad, flat, and somewhat rough. The distinctive inflorescence consists of 3–5 (sometimes more) racemes arranged along a central axis; the spikelets are covered in sticky hairs. It spreads by short rhizomes and seeds.

Management

Dallis Grass thrives in fertile, moist soils and full sun. It is tolerant of heavy grazing and flooding. In lawns, it is difficult to control due to its deep roots and rhizomes. It is an important forage grass in the southern U.S. and Australia.