California oat grass (Danthonia californica, Proc. Calif. Acad. Sci. 2: 182 (1863))

Family: Poaceae

Author: Bol.

Bibliography: Proc. Calif. Acad. Sci. 2: 182 (1863)

Year: 1863

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Danthonia

Vegetable: False

Observations: W. Canada to W. & WC. U.S.A., C. Chile

Description

California oat grass (Danthonia californica) is a perennial grass species belonging to the Poaceae family. This resilient plant was first described and documented in 1863 by Bolander, as referenced in the Proceedings of the California Academy of Sciences.

California oat grass is widely distributed across Western Canada, the Western and West-Central United States, and Central Chile. It thrives in a variety of habitats, ranging from grasslands and open woodlands to coastal regions and meadows. Known for its adaptability, Danthonia californica can survive in diverse climatic conditions, which contributes to its extensive range.

The grass features fine, slender leaves that provide a delicate appearance. Its flowering stems, or culms, are typically upright and bear small, inconspicuous flowers that form in clusters called spikelets. These spikelets are characteristic of the Poaceae family and serve as a key identifier for the species.

Danthonia californica plays a significant role in its ecosystem. It serves as a valuable forage plant for grazing animals due to its nutritional content. Moreover, it contributes to soil stabilization, preventing erosion in areas where it is prevalent. The plant’s root system helps maintain soil structure and health, promoting a stable environment for other flora and fauna.

Ecologically, California oat grass is compatible with various native plant communities and is often used in restoration projects. Its presence supports biodiversity, providing habitat and food for insects and other wildlife. Additionally, it is appreciated for its potential in sustainable landscaping, offering an attractive and environmentally friendly alternative to more water-intensive grass species.

In summary, California oat grass (Danthonia californica) is a versatile and ecologically important species native to regions spanning from Western Canada and the United States to Central Chile. Its adaptability and beneficial properties make it a key component in diverse habitats, contributing to both ecological balance and sustainable agricultural practices.

Common Names

Eng: california oat grass, california oatgrass
Fra: danthonie de californie
En: California oat grass, California oatgrass, California Wild Oat Grass
Ar: دنطوان كاليفورني
Fr: Danthonie de Californie

Synonyms

• Danthonia californica var. palousensis (H.St.John)
• Merathrepta californica ((Bol.) Piper)
• Pentameris californica ((Bol.) A.Nelson & J.F.Macbr.)
• Merathrepta americana ((Scribn.) Piper)
• Danthonia californica var. piperi (H.St.John)
• Danthonia macounii (Hitchc.)
• Danthonia americana (Scribn.)
• Pentameris americana ((Scribn.) A.Nelson & J.F.Macbr.)
• Danthonia californica var. americana ((Scribn.) Hitchc.)

Distribution

• Alberta (native)
• Arizona (native)
• British Columbia (native)
• California (native)
• Chile Central (native)
• Colorado (native)
• Idaho (native)
• Montana (native)
• Nevada (native)
• Oregon (native)
• Saskatchewan (native)
• South Dakota (native)
• Utah (native)
• Washington (native)
• Wyoming (native)
• Masachusettes (introduced)

Additional Images

Fruit

Taken May 10, 2002 by EOL − Bart and Susan Eisenberg (cc-by)

Taken Feb 3, 2008 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jul 10, 2015 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)

Taken Dec 16, 2014 by EOL − podiceps (cc-by-nc)

Taken May 24, 2015 by EOL − james_holkko (cc-by-nc)

Habit

Taken Feb 3, 2008 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Feb 3, 2008 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Dec 16, 2014 by EOL − podiceps (cc-by-nc)

Bark

Taken Feb 3, 2008 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Feb 19, 2007 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)

Flower

Taken Feb 19, 2007 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jul 10, 2015 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)

Leaf

Taken Feb 19, 2007 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)

Taken Feb 19, 2007 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2703262)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:397487-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Danthonia californica Bol.)

Specifications

Growth form>: Multiple Stem

Growth habit>: Graminoid

Growth rate>: Moderate

Growth

Ph maximum: 7.0

Ph minimum: 6.0