Species Information

• common cordgrass
• Spartina anglica C.E. Hubbard
• USDA Symbol: SPAN5
• Oregon Noxious Weed Designation: A, T
• Pictures

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Identification: Perennial aquatic grass. Grows 1 to 4 ft tall. Leaf (blade) flat with margins loosely in-rolled at tip, 1/4 to 1/2 in. wide at base. Blade at a 40-80 degree angle to stem. Internodes fleshy. Inflorescence slightly open, branches loosely erect to ascending and loosely overlapping. Rhizomes long and fleshy. Similar to dense-flowered cordgrass (S. densiflora), salt-meadow cordgrass (S. patens), and smooth cordgrass (S. alterniflora). A detailed key is recommended for positive identification. Common cordgrass has not yet been positively identified in Oregon.

Impacts: This plant is a non-native grass species that invades lower salt marsh and mud flat habitats inhabiting the same tidal zone as S. alterniflora. One plant can develop into a large, clonal patch many meters in diameter. Multiple patches on barren mudflats coalesce until no open space remains. Because it is a hybrid with increased vigor, this species can expand at a rate much greater than any native species. Infestations quickly become mono-cultures, impacting clam and oyster production, and waterfowl feeding areas.

Biological Controls: Biological control agents are not used on "A" listed weeds in Oregon. If this weed is found in the state it will be managed for eradication or containment.

Oregon Maps of Common Cordgrass Distribution

Links:

USDA Plants Database information on common cordgrass

GRIN Database information on common cordgrass

Oregon Department of Agriculture information on common cordgrass