Family: Poaceae
Author: (Kunth) Griseb.
Bibliography: Fl. Brit. W. I.: 537 (1864)
Year: 1864
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Bouteloua
Vegetable: False
Observations: SW. & SC. U.S.A. to Mexico, Colombia to N. Argentina
Description
Needle grama, scientifically known as Bouteloua aristidoides, is a fascinating and resilient member of the Poaceae family. This annual grass stands out for its distinctive needle-like appearance, which is where its common name originates. It is a species that demonstrates remarkable adaptability, thriving in various environments across a broad geographic range.
Geographically, Needle grama is native to the Southwestern and South-central regions of the United States. It extends its range further southward, encompassing Mexico, and continues down through parts of Central America to Colombia, reaching as far as Northern Argentina. This expansive distribution highlights the plant’s versatility in facing different climatic and soil conditions.
First described in the mid-19th century, Needle grama was documented in the Flora of British West Indies (Fl. Brit. W. I.: 537) in 1864, under the authorship of Kunth, later refined by Grisebach. This early documentation has been foundational in understanding the species, contributing significantly to botanical literature.
In terms of appearance, Bouteloua aristidoides typically presents a slender and upright growth habit. The grass displays fine, hair-like structures that resemble needles, a characteristic feature that not only gives it its name but also enhances its aesthetic and ecological value. These needle-like elements play a crucial role in protecting the plant against herbivores and in minimizing water loss, an adaptation critical for survival in arid and semi-arid regions.
Ecologically, Needle grama is an integral component of the ecosystems it inhabits. It contributes to soil stabilization, preventing erosion, and supporting the health of its environment. Its growth habits allow it to coexist harmoniously with other flora and fauna, providing habitat and resources for various species within its ecosystem.
In conclusion, Needle grama (Bouteloua aristidoides) stands as a testament to the resilience and adaptability of grasses within the Poaceae family. Its widespread presence from the southwestern U.S. to northern Argentina underscores its ecological versatility and importance, making it a species of interest for further botanical study and conservation efforts.
Common Names
Eng: needle grama
En: Needle grama, Sixweeks needle grama
Synonyms
- Bouteloua aristidoides var. arizonica (M.E.Jones)
- Eutriana aristidoides (Trin.)
- Atheropogon hirsutus ((J.Presl) E.Fourn.)
- Aristida unilateralis (Willd. ex Steud.)
- Bouteloua ciliata (Griseb.)
- Triathera aristidoides ((Kunth) Nash)
- Atheropogon aristidoides ((Kunth) Roem. & Schult.)
- Bouteloua gracilis (Vasey)
- Dinebra aristidoides (Kunth)
- Dinebra hirsuta (J.Presl)
- Eutriana hirsuta ((J.Presl) Kunth)
Distribution
- Argentina Northeast (native)
- Argentina Northwest (native)
- Arizona (native)
- Aruba (native)
- Bolivia (native)
- Brazil Northeast (native)
- California (native)
- Colombia (native)
- Ecuador (native)
- Mexico Central (native)
- Mexico Northeast (native)
- Mexico Northwest (native)
- Mexico Southwest (native)
- Nevada (native)
- New Mexico (native)
- Paraguay (native)
- Peru (native)
- Texas (native)
- Utah (native)
- Vermont (native)
- Maryland (introduced)
Additional Images
Leaf
Taken Sep 2, 2021 by Daniel Bäck (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Sep 2, 2021 by Daniel Bäck (cc-by-sa)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© 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/5289860)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:1049662-2)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Bouteloua aristidoides (Kunth) Griseb.)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Graminoid
