Indian ricegrass

Indian Ricegrass (Achnatherum hymenoides) is a perennial cool-season bunchgrass native to North America. It is found in many types of habitat, from desert plains to alpine areas. Indian ricegrass is a valuable forage for wildlife and livestock and has been used as a food source by Native Americans.

Description

Indian ricegrass is a bunchgrass that grows 1 to 2 feet tall. The leaves are slender and rolled, and the seed heads are open and airy. The seeds are large and have a rice-like appearance, which gives the plant its common name.

Distribution and Habitat

Indian ricegrass is native to western North America, from Canada to Mexico. It is found in a variety of habitats, including desert plains, sagebrush steppe, pinyon-juniper woodland, and alpine areas. It is tolerant of a wide range of soil types, but prefers sandy or well-drained soils.

Uses

Indian ricegrass is a valuable forage for wildlife and livestock. It is one of the first grasses to green up in the spring, providing important early-season forage. The large, nutritious seeds are also an important food source for birds and small mammals.

Native Americans traditionally harvested the seeds of Indian ricegrass for food. The seeds were ground into flour and used to make bread or porridge.

Cultivation

Indian ricegrass is often used in restoration and reclamation projects because of its drought tolerance and ability to grow in poor soils. It is also used in landscaping for its ornamental value.

Conservation Status

Indian ricegrass is not currently listed as threatened or endangered. However, its habitat is being lost to development and invasive species.

See Also

• Grasses of North America
• Native American cuisine
• Wildlife of North America