Family: Poaceae
Compound: Spo air
Synonyms: Agrostis airoides, Atropis airoides, Atropis nuttalliana, Festuca nuttalliana, Glyceria montana, Panicularia distans var. airoides, Phippsia airoides, Phippsia borealis subsp. neglecta, Phippsia deschampsoides, Phippsia porsildii, Poa nuttalliana, Puccinellia airoides, Puccinellia borealis subsp. neglecta, Puccinellia cusickii, Puccinellia neglecta, Puccinellia nuttalliana, Sporobolus diffusissimus, Vilfa airoides
Geographic Origin: W US, Central Mexico
Characteristics: A dense bunch-forming grass up to 3ft (1m) in height. Inflorescences are delicate panicles at the tips of vertical stems above the plant.
Natural History: Grows between 2,500-6,500ft (762-1981m) in alkaline soils along washes, in flats, basins, and on plateaus. Blooms summer to fall. Provides forage for grazers and shelter for small animals due to its dense growth form.
Cultivation Notes: Sometimes available at local nurseries. It provides food for granivorous birds, grazers, and offers thermal shelter for small animals which makes it an excellent choice for landscaping and wildlife gardens. Spread seeds on the soil surface and keep moist, or buy plants and transplant.
For plant propagation information, click here
Ethnobotany: Seeds can be eaten
Citations:
SEINet Arizona - New Mexico Chapter
https://swbiodiversity.org/seinet/taxa/index.php?taxon=Sporobolus+airoi…