How to identify Hairy crabgrass (Digitaria sanguinalis)
Hairy crabgrass, also known as Common crabgrass, Summer grass, Purple crabgrass
Hairy crabgrass is characterized by its sprawling growth habit, where lower branches lie close to the ground and upper branches stand more upright. This summer annual exhibits multiple branching stems emanating from its base. Its favored environments are areas with ample sunlight, ranging from moist to dry conditions, and it thrives in clay loam soils, though it shows adaptability to lesser quality soils. The plant is capable of forming dense colonies, and its lifecycle concludes with the onset of frost. To identify this species, look for its distinct branching pattern and growth in sunny locations.
Lifespan: Annual, Biennial
Plant Type: Grass
Leaf Type: Deciduous
Sprawling growth habit with lower branches close to the ground and upright upper branches.
One-flowered spikelets aligned along racemes up to 8 inches (20 cm) long.
Caryopsis fruit enclosed in protective glumes, reddish when mature, 1-1.5 mm wide.
Leaves up to 6 inches (15 cm) long, dull light green, slightly curly margins.
Prostrate stems rooting at nodes, 2 feet (60 cm) long, green to purple in color.
The leaves of hairy crabgrass are characterized by their blades, which are up to 6 inches (15 cm) long and nearly 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) wide. They display a dull light green color and often have slightly curly margins. Toward the base, the leaves are frequently hairy, adding a textured appearance. These features can assist in identifying hairy crabgrass among similar plants.
The flowers of hairy crabgrass feature numerous pairs of one-flowered spikelets aligned along the length of each raceme, which can reach up to 8 inches (20 cm). These spikelets are positioned on one side of the flattened stalk, showcasing their distinct arrangement during the blooming period from mid-summer to early fall. The overall structure and alignment of the spikelets are key identification features, though the flowers themselves are small and lack prominent petals or a noticeable scent.
The stems of hairy crabgrass are prostrate, spreading, and rooting at nodes. They typically exhibit a somewhat flattened shape and can measure up to 2 feet (60 cm) in length. These stems are moderately thick, ranging from 0.1 to 0.2 inches (2.5 to 5 mm) in diameter. The color is generally green to purplish. The branching pattern is evident at the nodes, which can root into the soil, aiding in the plant's spread and stability.
The fruit of hairy crabgrass is a caryopsis, commonly referred to as a 'grain', typical of the grass family to which hairy crabgrass belongs. They are small, dry, and indehiscent, designed to be dispersed as single seeds. Each caryopsis is enclosed in a pair of bracts called glumes which protects the seed within. When mature, the seeds take on a reddish hue and have a hardened outer covering. These grains are tiny, approximately 1-1.5 mm wide, and their size makes detailed examination a task often requiring magnification. The seed's ability to produce prolifically is a noteworthy characteristic, emphasizing the importance of timely removal to control the population spread.
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Scientific Classification of Hairy crabgrass
