A dozen or more species of Tripsacum are native to warm regions of the Americas. The
genus Tripsacum is very closely
related to Zea (maize) and hybrids between
the two genera are reported. Fakahatchee grass is native throughout Florida and much of the
eastern United States.
Its dense, fibrous root system is excellent for erosion control. Relatively large
seeds produced in late summer are a wildlife food.
See this plant around parking lot 2 and around pond ‘H’ behind building 6.
Herbaceous perennial with leaves to three to six feet tall.
Light: full sun to part shade
Water: somewhat drought tolerant, may require irrigation during a drought
Soil: adaptable, no special requirements
This native grass is easy to grow in northeast Florida. While it grows
naturally in moist locations, it is reasonably drought tolerant in the garden.
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