Indian goosegrass

Family

Poaceae

Scientific Name

Eleusine indica

Other Common Names:

wiregrass

goose grass

manienie ali'i

crow's foot

silver crabgrass

Synonyms (former Scientific Names):

Cynosurus indicus

Habit

Goosegrass is a major weed of all disturbed places. It includes cultivated crops, gardens and roadsides. It also occurs in plantations and nurseries. Goosegrass grows best in moist, fertile, cultivated soil in full sunlight. Once established it is difficult to kill. It is prevalent in disturbed areas, especially in sandy soil. It is quick-growing and long-living.

Leaves

The leaves of Goosegrass are folded in the bud. Being distinctively white to silver in color, leaves grow in a clump with the base of the leaves. The ligule is toothed, membranous, and divided at the center. It contains hairs only at the base of the leaf.

Identifying Characteristics

Goosegrass reproduces by seeds.

Flower Seed Head

Flowers grow during the period of June - Nov. At the tip of the seed stalk, Goosegrass seedheads grow containing 3-7 spikes. The seeds are attached in a zipper appearance on the spike.

Where Found

Flowers grow during the period of June - Nov. At the tip of the seed stalk, Goosegrass seedheads grow containing 3-7 spikes. The seeds are attached in a zipper appearance on the spike.