canary grass

Phalaris canariensis resembles Phalaris arundinacea (reed canary grass), a perennial forage crop and a wild grass. Although heads of both crops are panicles, Phalaris canariensis heads resemble club wheat. This large, coarse grass has erect, hairless stems, usually from 2 to 6 feet (0.61 to 1.83 m) tall. The ligule is prominent and membranous, 1⁄4 inch (0.64 cm) long and rounded at the apex. The gradually tapering leaf blades are 3+1⁄2 to 10 inches (8.9 to 25.4 cm) long, 1⁄4 to 3⁄4 inch (0.64 to 1.91 cm) wide, flat, and often harsh on both surfaces. The compact panicles are erect or sometimes slightly spreading and range from 3 to 16 inches (7.6 to 40.6 cm) long with branches 1⁄2 to 1+1⁄2 inches (1.3 to 3.8 cm) long. Single flowers occur in dense clusters in May to mid-June or August. Inflorescences are green or slightly purple at first, then become tan.