Stinkgrass

Stinkgrass, Lovegrass

Eragrostis cilianensis (All.) Vign. ex Janchen

Poaceae (Grass Family)

▲ ▼ mature plants

▲ ▼ pre-flowering plants

▲ inflorescence

▲ ligule and collar region

Stinkgrass or Lovegrass:

warm-season, annual grass; 3-12" tall, with spreading growth habit
dark-green, narrow leaf blades
dense panicle inflorescence that is whitish, silvery or sometimes gray-black colored spikelets
inflorescences gives off musky odor when bruised (why is called stinkgrass)
found in compacted, wet or dry soils (foot paths, cow paths)
several similar species may be found in Missouri, such as tufted lovegrass, which has thinner leaves and smaller spikelets and florets in panicle