Witchgrass

Panicum capillare

Weed Description
A densely hairy erect summer annual grass that may reach as much as 32 inches in height. Witchgrass is primarily a weed of agronomic crops, gardens, and landscapes. It is found throughout the United States.

Seedlings
The leaf blades and sheaths are covered with hairs. Leaves are rolled in the bud and lack auricles. The ligule is a fringe of hairs that is approximately 1 to 2 mm long.

Leaves
Leaves are covered with hairs on both surfaces. Leaves are rolled in the bud, lack auricles, and have a ligule that is a fringe of hairs often fused at the base. Ligules are usually 1 but may reach 2 mm in length. Leaf blades have a conspicuous white midvein and are from 4 to 10 inches long, 5 to 15 mm wide.

Stems
Sheaths are erect, reaching 32 inches in height, somewhat flattened, and covered with hairs. Sheaths have split margins that are overlapping.

Flowers
The seedhead is a dense panicle that eventually becomes open and may range from 8 to 16 inches in length. Panicles may account for as much as half of the entire height of the plants.

Roots
A fibrous root system.

Identifying Characteristics
A grass that is densely covered with hairs, has a ligule that is a fringe of hairs, and an open panicle that may account for as much as half of the height of the entire plant. These characteristics help to distinguish witchgrass from most other grasses.

Office of Programs

University of Missouri

Witchgrass

Panicum capillare