Sixweeks Threeawn

(Aristida adscensionis)

Sixweeks Threeawn (Aristida adscensionis)

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Estimated Native Range
Species Map Help

Climate Requirements

Precipitation 9" - 11"
High Temp. 81°F - 107°F
Low Temp. 30°F - 62°F
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Summary

Aristida adscensionis, commonly known as sixweeks threeawn, is an annual grass that is native to open woodlands, grasslands, and scrub areas in the Americas, though it has become nearly cosmopolitan in distribution. It is particularly adapted to warm, dry climates and is often found in disturbed sites, which can include roadsides and overgrazed pastures. This species typically forms tufts ranging from 2 to 31 inches tall and is characterized by its narrow inflorescence of spikelets, each bearing a fruit with three distinctive awns that can aid in seed dispersal.

Sixweeks threeawn is valued for its ability to quickly colonize and stabilize disturbed soils, preventing erosion. It is also used in wildflower meadows and as a low-maintenance grass in xeriscaping due to its drought tolerance. In cultivation, it prefers full sun exposure and can thrive in a variety of soil types, provided they are well-drained. While it requires minimal water once established, it can benefit from occasional irrigation during prolonged dry periods. However, due to its weedy nature, it can become invasive outside its native range and may outcompete other species. Gardeners should be cautious when introducing it to areas where it is not native.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Grass
  • Height: 1-2 feet
  • Width: 0.5-1 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter
  • Leaf Retention: Semi-deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Very Low
  • Drainage: Fast

Common Uses

Drought Tolerant, Erosion Control, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Native to open woodlands, grasslands, and scrub areas in the Americas

Other Names

Common Names: Annual-Bristle Grass, Six-weeks Threeawn Grass, Mule Grass, Yerba Di Bientu, Six-Weeks Tree-Awn Grass

Scientific Names: Aristida adscensionis, Aristida abyssinica, Aristida abyssinica, Aristida adscensionis f. modesta, Aristida adscensionis f. modestina, Aristida adscensionis f. viridis, Aristida adscensionis subsp. adscensionis, Aristida adscensionis subsp. bromoides, Aristida adscensionis subsp. caerulescens

GBIF Accepted Name: Aristida adscensionis