| Other Common Names: Turkey
Foot, Beardgrass
Family: Grass (Poaceae)
Height: 3 - 10' (0.9 - 3.3 m)
Flower Size: 3 branches, each
2 - 4" (5 - 10 cm)
Flowering Season: July -
September
Ecological Preferences: Dry
to mesic (medium moisture) fertile prairies
Select Characteristics: Leaf
growth typically starts in April. The leaves, as
well as the stem, may have a bluish, reddish
or purplish tint. The roots may reach down twelve
feet.
Historical Significance: A
medicine from this plant was made by some tribes to
help alleviate indigestion. With its deep root
system it formed a dense sod, helping to hold the
rich topsoil. It was good forage for grazing animals
and was important as prairie hay for settlers.
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