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Physical description: Deertongue is a perennial, warm season grass with
prostrate growth habit that is very erect and coarse in appearance.
The wide leaves of Deertongue that resemble a deer's tongue grow
to 7.5 inches, and are rolled in the shoot. This plant may be
confused with Jointhead Arthraxon (Arthraxon hispidus),
But unlike those of Jointhead Arthraxon, the leaves of Deertongue
are longer, and the stems of Deertongue do not root at the nodes.
The leave sheath and stem of this plant are hairy, and it has
a fibrous root system.
Optimal growing conditions: Deertongue prefers moist, sandy soil in full sun
to partial shade. It tolerates acid soil (pH 3.8 to 7.5), high
concentrations of aluminum that may limit the growth of other
species, and droughty infertile soil.
Susceptibility to pests and diseases:
This plant is not very susceptible
to pests and diseases.
Use: Deertongue
is used as a low maintenance turf. It is an excellent plant for
revegetating acid mine spoils, and sandy infertile disturbed
areas. It provides food and cover for wildlife.
Additional Notes: Deertongue has traditionally been grouped in the
genus Panicum but is now being classified by some as a Dichanthelium.
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