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Physical description: This plant is a tall, erect, tufted bunchgrass
that reproduces from seeds and tillers. It typically grows in
small bunches 2 to 6 inches in diameter and reaches heights of
18 to 26 inches. The root system is shallow and fibrous. Growth
begins in May, flowering in June and July, and seed production
occurs through September. If adequate soil moisture is present,
grass may regrow in the fall. Produces an attractive silvery-green
spike-like panicle, 1 to 5 inches in length, with a fine pubescence
below the seedhead . Leaves are primarily basal in orientation
with narrow blades (folded in the bud), 1½ to 5 inches
in length, somewhat pubescent or glabrous especially on the lower
leaves. Blades are flat with a rough upper surface (due to coarse
ribbing) and finely striate on the lower surface. Sheaths are
distinctly veined. Short, membranous ligules and no auricles
are present.
Optimal growing conditions: Junegrass is primarily found in sandy or coarser
soils, but it can survive in clay loam soils. It is usually found
in soils with pH between 5.5 and 8.0, and has moderate tolerance
to soils that are acidic and alkaline in nature. It does not
respond well to soils with high salinity, but thrives in soils
with low nutrient content. Tolerant to drought. Winter Hardiness:
Zones 3 to 9. Predominantly located in open woods and dry upland
prairies.
Susceptibility to pests and diseases:
No serious pest or disease problems
have been reported for this species
Use:
Junegrass may be used for reclamation purposes, especially in
prairie and alpine areas because its fibrous root system encourages
soil building and erosion control. Once established, it is moderately
aggressive. Provides an excellent forage source for livestock,
but since plants are randomly scattered this leads to low production.
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