Cusick’s bluegrass (Poa cusickii, Contr. U.S. Natl. Herb. 1: 271 (1893))

Family: Poaceae

Author: Vasey

Bibliography: Contr. U.S. Natl. Herb. 1: 271 (1893)

Year: 1893

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Poa

Vegetable: False

Observations: Yukon to W. & NC. U.S.A.

Description

Cusick’s bluegrass, scientifically known as Poa cusickii, is a notable species within the Poaceae family. First described in details by botanist George Vasey in the publication “Contributions from the U.S. National Herbarium” in 1893, this perennial grass carries historical significance alongside its botanical characteristics.

This grass is primarily observed across a broad geographical range, extending from the Yukon territories down through the western and north-central regions of the United States. Its adaptability to diverse climates within these areas demonstrates its evolutionary resilience and ecological adaptability.

Cusick’s bluegrass features slender, erect stems and narrow, bluish-green leaves, which contribute to its distinct appearance. These blades, combined with the plant’s delicate, airy inflorescences, offer both visual and ecological benefits, making it a valuable species within its native habitats. The inflorescences themselves are notable for their intricate structure, typically consisting of numerous spikelets that aid in its reproductive success.

Like many other species within the Poa genus, Cusick’s bluegrass plays a crucial role in its ecosystem. It serves as a source of forage for various wildlife, supporting the diets of grazing animals, and contributes to soil stabilization with its root systems. This grass also aids in maintaining the health and biodiversity of the habitats where it thrives.

Cusick’s bluegrass, with its rich heritage and ecological relevance, remains a plant of interest for both botanists and ecologists. As with many native species, its conservation is critical, ensuring that it continues to contribute to its natural surroundings for future generations to study and appreciate.

Common Names

Eng: cusick’s bluegrass, early bluegrass
Fra: pâturin de cusick
En: Cusick’s bluegrass, Early bluegrass
Fr: Pâturin de Cusick

Synonyms

• Poa purpurascens (Vasey)
• Poa idahoensis (Beal)
• Poa alpina var. purpurascens (Beal)
• Poa paddensis (T.A.William)
• Poa cottonii (Piper)
• Poa capillarifolia (Scribn. & T.A.Williams)
• Poa cusickii subsp. epilis ((Scribn.) W.A.Weber)
• Poa epilis (Scribn.)
• Poa purpurascens var. epilis ((Scribn.) M.E.Jones)
• Poa cusickii var. purpurascens ((Beal) C.L.Hitchc.)
• Poa spillmanii (Piper)
• Poa cusickii var. epilis ((Scribn.) C.L.Hitchc.)
• Poa scaberrima (Rydb.)
• Poa cusickii subsp. purpurascens ((Beal) Soreng)
• Poa subaristata var. orendensis (T.A.Williams ex Pammel)
• Poa scabrifolia (A.Heller)
• Poa subpurpurea (Rydb.)
• Poa cusickii subsp. pallida (Soreng)

Distribution

• Alberta (native)
• British Columbia (native)
• California (native)
• Colorado (native)
• Idaho (native)
• Manitoba (native)
• Montana (native)
• Nevada (native)
• North Dakota (native)
• Oregon (native)
• Saskatchewan (native)
• Utah (native)
• Washington (native)
• Wyoming (native)
• Yukon (native)

Additional Images

Habit

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Soreng, R.J. (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Soreng, R.J. (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Soreng, R.J. (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Soreng, R.J. (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Soreng, R.J. (cc-by-nc-sa)

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

Fruit

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Soreng, R.J. (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Soreng, R.J. (cc-by-nc-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2704267)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:283380-2)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Poa cusickii Vasey)

Specifications

Growth habit>: Graminoid

Growth