Mutton bluegrass (Poa fendleriana, Bull. Div. Bot. U.S.D.A. 13(2): t. 74 (1893))

Family: Poaceae

Author: (Steud.) Vasey

Bibliography: Bull. Div. Bot. U.S.D.A. 13(2): t. 74 (1893)

Year: 1893

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Poa

Vegetable: False

Observations: W. & C. Canada to N. Mexico

Description

Mutton bluegrass, scientifically referred to as Poa fendleriana, is a noteworthy species within the Poaceae family. This grass finds its origins in the intricate ecological landscapes of Western and Central Canada, extending its presence down to Northern Mexico. First documented in the late 19th century, Poa fendleriana has been meticulously described in authoritative botanical literature such as the Bulletin of the Division of Botany by the United States Department of Agriculture.

The taxonomical classification credits Steudel for its initial identification, with subsequent acknowledgment by Vasey, whose detailed observations underscored its distinctive characteristics and adaptive significance in various North American habitats.

Mutton bluegrass thrives in diverse environmental conditions, showcasing remarkable versatility. It is particularly valuable to both natural ecosystems and agricultural practices, providing a reliable forage option for grazing livestock. The resilience and adaptive growth patterns of this grass make it a key component in the conservation of rangelands, contributing to soil stability and biodiversity.

As a perennial bunchgrass, Poa fendleriana stands out for its robust nature and ecological benefits, making it a subject of interest for botanists and ecologists aiming to preserve and understand grassland ecosystems. Its historical documentation and ongoing study underscore the enduring relevance of this species within the rich tapestry of North American flora.

Common Names

Eng: mutton bluegrass, mutton grass, fendler’s bluegrass, vasey’s muttongrass, muttongrass
Fra: pâturin de fendler
En: Mutton bluegrass, Mutton grass, Muttongrass, Fendler’s bluegrass, Vasey’s muttongrass
Fr: Pâturin de Fendler

Synonyms

• Eragrostis fendleriana (Steud.)
• Puccinellia fendleriana ((Steud.) Ponert)
• Atropis fendleriana ((Steud.) Beal)
• Panicularia fendleriana ((Steud.) Kuntze)
• Uralepis poioides (Buckley)

Distribution

• Alberta (native)
• Arizona (native)
• British Columbia (native)
• California (native)
• Colorado (native)
• Idaho (native)
• Manitoba (native)
• Mexico Northeast (native)
• Mexico Northwest (native)
• Montana (native)
• Nebraska (native)
• Nevada (native)
• New Mexico (native)
• North Dakota (native)
• Oklahoma (native)
• Oregon (native)
• South Dakota (native)
• Texas (native)
• Utah (native)
• Washington (native)
• Wyoming (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)

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)

© 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/2704258)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:204214-2)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Poa fendleriana (Steud.) Vasey)

Specifications

Growth form>: Bunch

Growth habit>: Graminoid

Growth rate>: Moderate

Growth

Ph maximum: 8.0

Ph minimum: 6.0