Velvet grass is native to Europe, western Asia, and the Canary Islands, introduced to North America
and now widespread or invasive in some areas.
Identification: Stems are erect, hollow, 1-3′ (30-99 cm) tall.
Stems may be somewhat flat at the base, generating new roots. Leaf blades are 2-8″ (5-20 cm) long
and ⅛-⅜″ (4-12 mm) wide. The panicles (flowerheads) are compact, up to 6″ (15 cm) long.
Each spikelet typically has two flowers. This species reproduces by spreading and putting down new
roots, or by producing prolific seeds. Seeds are 1/32-1/16″ (1.5-2 mm) long.