Achnatherum

Achnatherum is a genus of plants in the grass family, Poaceae. It is widespread across many continents and includes both perennial and annual species. The genus was first described by Christian Gottfried Daniel Nees von Esenbeck in 1841.

Description

The plants in the Achnatherum genus are typically tall and slender, with narrow leaves and a loose, open inflorescence. The spikelets are usually one-flowered, and the glumes are often longer than the lemma. The lemma is typically hardened and shiny, with a sharp point or short awn at the tip.

Taxonomy

The Achnatherum genus is part of the Poaceae family, in the Pooideae subfamily. It was first described by Christian Gottfried Daniel Nees von Esenbeck in 1841. The genus name Achnatherum is derived from the Greek words achne, meaning "chaff", and ather, meaning "spike".

Distribution and habitat

Achnatherum species are found in a wide range of habitats, from deserts to mountainous regions. They are widespread across many continents, including Europe, Asia, Africa, and North and South America.

Species

There are over 100 species in the Achnatherum genus. Some of the more well-known species include:

• Achnatherum calamagrostis (silver spikegrass)
• Achnatherum robustum (sleepygrass)
• Achnatherum hymenoides (Indian ricegrass)
• Achnatherum speciosum (desert needlegrass)

Uses

Many Achnatherum species are used for grazing by livestock. Some species, such as Achnatherum hymenoides (Indian ricegrass), are also used by Native Americans for food and other purposes.

See also

• List of Poaceae genera

External links

• The Plant List: Achnatherum
• GrassBase - The Online World Grass Flora: Achnatherum

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