Dallisgrass

DALLISGRASS: Paspalum dilatatum

COMMON NAMES: Dallisgrass, Dallas Grass

CULTURE: Introduced invasive species from Argentina and Brazil. The common name dallisgrass was derived from A. T. Dallis, a 19th-century farmer who grew the species extensively near La Grange, Georgia.

HABIT: Prefers warm, moist areas and high-cut lawns. Grows in all soil types.

This is a long-lived, warm season, deep-rooted high-successional perennial bunch grass. Forms low flat clumps with dead looking centers and tall fast-growing seed heads. It is one of the most troublesome weeds in lawns. Begins growth in very early spring and prefers warm, moist areas and high-cut lawns. Tolerate almost any type of soil, reproducing by seeds and rhizomes (underground stems). Has long coarse-textured leaves ½ inch wide and 4-10 inches long. Stems 2-6 inches long radiate from the center of the plant in a star pattern. Seeds are produced on 3-5 finger-like segments that grow from the top of these stems from May to October. Seed stalks grow tall and are unattractive in lawns. It grows most vigorously in warm summer weather, but can remain green in mild winters. Control with vinegar based herbicides and physical removal followed by an application of compost. Best control is usually to dig out and fill depressions with compost.

For more information, visit USDA Agricultural Research Service: Paspalum dilatatum

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