WHERE IT GROWS

It is found on every continent, although it does not tolerate cool temperatures. In US, cogongrass extends as far west as Texas and as north as South Carolina. It infests turf, ditch banks, pastures, golf courses, and along forest tree lines. It thrives on low-fertility soils from fine sand to heavy clay.

IMPACT

This weed has two methods of spreading: the dispersing of its 3000 seeds per plant by way of wind currents, but the main way it spreads is through a network of rhizomes. When established, this perennial weed is very difficult to get rid of. In areas with killing frosts, the leaves will turn light brown during winter months and present a serious fire hazard. 60 percent of its growth is below the surface in a dense web of sprawling, dirt-hugging roots. This allows the plant’s rhizomes to cause physical injury to other plants by penetrating roots with its sharp rhizome tips. Like many other weeds, it is highly competitive for water and nutrients.