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Prairie Cordgrass (Spartina pectinata): A Tall, Native Wetland Grass for Restoration

Prairie Cordgrass, Spartina pectinata, is a tall, rhizomatous grass native to wet prairies, marshes, and lakeshores across North America. It is a dominant species in many wetland communities.

Wetland Architect

This grass grows 4–7 feet tall from long, creeping rhizomes. The leaves are stiff, flat, and rough. The inflorescence consists of 10–20 comb-like spikes arranged along the upper stem, giving a distinctive, one-sided appearance. It spreads aggressively to form large colonies.

Restoration Value

Spartina pectinata is invaluable for wetland restoration, shoreline stabilization, and phytoremediation. It tolerates flooding, drought, and a wide pH range. Full sun. In gardens, use only in contained wet areas or large-scale restorations due to its vigor.

Family:	Poaceae (poh-AY-see-ee) (Info)
Genus:	Spartina (spar-TEE-nuh) (Info)
Species:	pectinata (pek-tin-AY-tuh) (Info)

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