Long-spike tridens (Tridens strictus, J.K.Small, Fl. S.E. U.S.: 143 (1903))

Family: Poaceae

Author: (Nutt.) Nash

Bibliography: J.K.Small, Fl. S.E. U.S.: 143 (1903)

Year: 1903

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Tridens

Vegetable: False

Observations: C. & SE. U.S.A. to W. Pennsylvania

Description

Long-spike tridens, formally known as Tridens strictus, is a notable grass species that belongs to the Poaceae family, often distinguished for its characteristic long, slender spikes. Documented extensively in 1903 by the botanist J.K. Small in “Flora of the Southeastern United States,” this perennial grass stands as an integral component of the South and Southeastern U.S. flora, extending its reach to Western Pennsylvania.

The plant’s morphology is distinctive; it typically forms dense clumps with stems that can grow relatively tall, allowing the long spikes to sway gracefully in the wind. The inflorescence showcases elegance and simplicity, featuring tightly packed spikelets along a central axis, which contribute to both its common and scientific names.

Ecologically, Long-spike tridens thrives in a variety of habitats—ranging from open woodlands and prairies to roadside ditches and disturbed areas. It is particularly well-adapted to the climatic conditions prevalent in its range, which covers the central and southeastern United States, stretching up to the western regions of Pennsylvania. This adaptability not only makes it a resilient species but also an important grass in terms of soil stabilization and as a food source for local fauna.

Understanding Tridens strictus helps appreciate the diverse tapestry of the region’s flora, offering insights into the intertwined lives of plant and animal species within these ecosystems. The historical and botanical significance outlined by J.K. Small underscores the continuing study and preservation efforts necessary for maintaining this grass species and its natural habitat.

Common Names

Eng: long-spike tridens
En: Long-spike tridens, Longspike tridens, Long-Spike Fluff Grass

Synonyms

• Tricuspis stricta ((Nutt.) Alph.Wood)
• Triodia stricta ((Nutt.) Benth. ex Vasey)
• Sieglingia stricta ((Nutt.) Kuntze)
• Uralepis densiflora (Buckley)
• Windsoria stricta (Nutt.)

Distribution

• Alabama (native)
• Arkansas (native)
• Florida (native)
• Georgia (native)
• Illinois (native)
• Kansas (native)
• Kentucky (native)
• Louisiana (native)
• Mississippi (native)
• Missouri (native)
• North Carolina (native)
• Oklahoma (native)
• Pennsylvania (native)
• South Carolina (native)
• Tennessee (native)
• Texas (native)
• Virginia (native)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − USDA NRCS Wetland Science Institute. (public)

Habit

Taken Nov 12, 2015 by EOL − grbfrog (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/5289652)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:257786-2)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Tridens strictus (Nutt.) Nash)

Specifications

Growth form>: Rhizomatous

Growth habit>: Graminoid

Growth rate>: Moderate

Growth

Ph maximum: 7.0

Ph minimum: 3.5