Coast Cockspur Grass

(Echinochloa walteri)

Coast Cockspur Grass (Echinochloa walteri)

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Climate Requirements

Precipitation 31" - 58"
High Temp. 81°F - 92°F
Low Temp. 15°F - 51°F

Summary

Echinochloa walteri, commonly known as Coast Cockspur Grass, is an annual grass native to brackish marshes, tidal shores, and wetland margins along the coastal areas of the eastern half of the United States. It typically grows up to 5 feet tall and is characterized by its robust growth and tolerance to saline conditions. The plant plays a crucial role in stabilizing coastal ecosystems and preventing erosion.

Coast Cockspur Grass is valued for its adaptability to wet and saline environments, making it an excellent choice for restoration projects and naturalized areas in coastal landscapes. It thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers moist to wet soils. While it is not commonly used in ornamental horticulture, its ecological importance cannot be overstated. Gardeners interested in creating wildlife-friendly or native plant gardens in appropriate regions may find this species beneficial. It requires minimal maintenance once established and can tolerate periodic flooding and salt spray.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Grass
  • Height: 2.5-4 feet
  • Width: 1-1.5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention:

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Drainage: Standing

Common Uses

Bird Garden, Erosion Control, Low Maintenance, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

Native to brackish marshes, tidal shores, and wetland margins along the coastal areas

Other Names

Common Names: Walter’s Barnyard Grass, Coastcockspur, Coast Cockspur Grass, Walter’s Millet

Scientific Names: Echinochloa walteri, Echinochloa crus-galli var. hispida, Echinochloa longearistata, Echinochloa longiaristata, Echinochloa walteri, Echinochloa walteri f. breviseta, Echinochloa walteri f. laevigata, Echinochloa walteri f. walteri, Echinochloa walteri var. laevigata, Oplismenus crus-galli var. hispidus

GBIF Accepted Name: Echinochloa walteri